Plant DNA Barcodes

Abstract

Abstract—The search for universal plant DNA barcodes has proved to be a big challenge. A single locus (or combination of several loci) that can be used for species identification has yet to be revealed, though the (rbcL + matK+ ITS) combination recommended in 2009 as the standard makes it possible to assign a species to the corresponding genus. The variability of some markers differs in different taxonomic groups and usually makes it possible to select the DNA barcode (sometimes even a mini-barcode) for a specific group, especially for applied tasks. Next-generation sequencing (NGS) methods make it possible to obtain a large number of extended DNA barcodes (sequences of complete chloroplast genomes and ribosomal genes), which allows the researcher to overcome the limitations of standard DNA barcodes. It is important that NGS technologies significantly enhance the possibility of the use of herbarium specimens. The search for plant DNA barcodes is ongoing.