DNA barcoding

DNA barcoding identifies organisms by comparing short DNA sequences from standardized genomic regions with reference sequences linked to known species.

Cytochrome c oxidase subunit I: A mitochondrial enzyme subunit whose gene is widely used as an animal DNA barcode. Its gene supplies the standard barcode region for most animal groups.
DNA: The molecule that stores hereditary information in most organisms. Its nucleotide sequence is the material measured in barcode assays.
Forensic entomology: The study of insects and other arthropods in legal investigations. Barcodes can identify immature or fragmentary insects collected from forensic scenes.
DNA barcoding gap: The separation between within-species and between-species genetic variation used to assess barcode discrimination. A clear gap supports reliable identification; overlapping variation weakens it.
DNA sequencing: The determination of the nucleotide order in a DNA molecule. Sequencing produces the marker read that barcode identification compares.
Mitochondrial DNA: DNA found in mitochondria, usually inherited maternally in animals and present in many copies per cell. Its abundance and inheritance make it useful for animal barcode markers.
Environmental DNA: Genetic material organisms shed into environmental samples such as water, soil, or air. Barcode markers can identify species from DNA collected without capturing the organisms.
Cryptic species: Distinct species that are difficult or impossible to distinguish by conventional morphology alone. Barcodes can reveal candidate species hidden by similar appearances.
Barcode of Life Data System: An international platform for storing and analyzing DNA barcode records. It links sequence records to specimen metadata and taxonomic identifications.
DNA marker: A heritable DNA feature used to distinguish individuals, populations, or taxa. A barcode is a standardized DNA marker selected for species discrimination.

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