DNA barcoding is a new method for identification of any species based on its DNA sequence, which is obtained from a tiny tissue sample of the organism under study.
DNA barcoding helps to study newly identified species as well as understanding ecological and evolutionary relationships between living organisms.
The process of DNA barcoding includes two basic steps:
(i) Collecting DNA barcode data of known species.
(ii) Matching the barcode sequence of the unknown sample against the barcode library for identification.
The applications of DNA barcoding are as follows:
- It helps to protect endangered species.
- It plays an important role in preservation of natural resources.
- It is also used for pest control in agriculture.
- It is used for identification of disease vectors.
- It is used for authentication of natural health products.
- It is also used for identification of medicinal plants.