Wellcome Open Research (Jun 2024)

A DNA barcoding framework for taxonomic verification in the Darwin Tree of Life Project [version 1; peer review: 2 approved]

  • Silvia Salatino,
  • Rebekka Uhl,
  • Peter O. Mulhair,
  • Freja Azzopardi,
  • Jordan Beasley,
  • Alex D. Twyford,
  • Lucia Campos-Dominguez,
  • Michelle L. Hart,
  • Olga Sivell,
  • David Bell,
  • Gavin Broad,
  • Felix Shaw,
  • Piotr Cuber,
  • Darren Choonea,
  • Peter M. Hollingsworth,
  • Laura L. Forrest,
  • Sahr Mian,
  • Alexandra Dombrowski,
  • Mara K.N. Lawniczak,
  • Claire Griffin,
  • Clementine Greeves,
  • Peter W.H. Holland,
  • Joanna Harley,
  • Owen T. Lewis,
  • Amanda Jones,
  • Ben W. Price,
  • Raju Misra,
  • Estelle Kilias,
  • Ian Barnes,
  • Laura Sivess,
  • Heather Allen,
  • Alice Minotto,
  • Inez Januszczak,
  • Michael Cunliffe,
  • Mark L. Blaxter,
  • Liam Crowley,
  • Lyndall Pereira da Conceicoa,
  • Brian Douglas,
  • Kieran Woof,
  • Ester Gaya,
  • Paul Kersey

Journal volume & issue
Vol. 9

Abstract

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Biodiversity genomics research requires reliable organismal identification, which can be difficult based on morphology alone. DNA-based identification using DNA barcoding can provide confirmation of species identity and resolve taxonomic issues but is rarely used in studies generating reference genomes. Here, we describe the development and implementation of DNA barcoding for the Darwin Tree of Life Project (DToL), which aims to sequence and assemble high quality reference genomes for all eukaryotic species in Britain and Ireland. We present a standardised framework for DNA barcode sequencing and data interpretation that is then adapted for diverse organismal groups. DNA barcoding data from over 12,000 DToL specimens has identified up to 20% of samples requiring additional verification, with 2% of seed plants and 3.5% of animal specimens subsequently having their names changed. We also make recommendations for future developments using new sequencing approaches and streamlined bioinformatic approaches.

Keywords