DNA barcoding is used constantly
today by taxonomists. DNA barcoding is a way to determine species by just using
a genetic sequence. This method was founded in 2003 by Paul Herbert at the
University of Guelph. DNA barcoding works by using a piece of a genetic sequence
and comparing it to a database of many other different genetic sequences. With
doing so, one is able to use a short sequence of usually 400-800 base pairs to
find exactly what animal the DNA was taken from and its species. Before this method was created, animals and
species were grouped simply by their physical and morphological features. DNA
barcoding is a more efficient and rapid way to actually determine what species
something is rather than just guessing based on features. Many species look
very similar and this makes it difficult to determine if they are different. DNA barcoding isn’t only used for animals, but
also plants and seeds. This method is way faster than the methods that were
used in the past to determine the species of a plant or animal. Now that
scientists have done years of research and already inserted certain genetic
sequences in the database, all that has to be done to find the match is to run
the DNA through the database.
For DNA barcoding a gene must
follow a certain criteria to work. First, there has to be a reasonable amount
of variability within the genetic sequence. Second, it must also have a
flanking site so that PCR can occur. Thirdly, it must have a short sequence so
that it can be amplified and extracted. For a short DNA sequence it must be in
the mitochondrial gene for cytochrome c oxidase subunit 1. This gene is what is
favored by both taxonomists and botanist when it comes to DNA barcoding. For
plants this is the ideal barcode, but there are others that will work but just aren’t
yet accepted by botanists. For plants there is certain criteria as well. This
criteria is that it must be able to be amplified by PCR, have species
variation, taxonomic diversity, and bioinformatic application. Therefore, one
cannot just choose a genetic sequence and run it through the database because
there probably won’t be a match.
Something that I found extremely
interesting is that scientists are also finding endangered species by using DNA
barcoding. Not only that, but this method is also helping determine if products
being sold are those of legal or illegal species. There is research that shows
that some sharks and rays were becoming endangered because of trade and they are
now on the endangered species list and no longer allowed to be traded. DNA
barcoding doesn’t only help identify species, but also helps to protect them. I
love that scientists are now able to see which animals are endangered and now
we can work together to keep any more animals from going instinct.
Sources:
Great start. Good voice, nice organization.
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