Proposal for the Classification of Toponyms in the Insular Regions of Mexico

Abstract

This article explores the importance of toponymy within geography, focusing on a less-studied aspect: the names of Mexico’s insular features, including islands, keys, and reefs. Of the 4110 recorded insular bodies distributed across six regions, only 1031 possess a toponym. The article presents a classification exercise using criteria proposed by authors such as Anaya Monroy, Guzmán Betancourt, and García Sánchez, alongside a new classification framework tailored to include specific features. These include coastal morphologies (geomorphological terms and pareidolia), biological characteristics (flora and fauna), and historical and cultural elements (anecdotes, surnames, constructions, demonyms, and saint names). The Gulf of Mexico is used as a case study, comprising 322 insular bodies with toponyms. Within this region, some homonyms are identified and differentiated using Roman numerals or cardinal directions to simplify searches. The study also examines the evolution of insular toponyms over time, revealing significant changes in historical cartography. This research emphasizes the rich toponymic diversity of Mexico’s insular regions and the value of systematically updating databases to ensure accurate and careful management of geographic names.