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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.
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Population status and ecology of the episodic moss Physcomitrium eurystomum Sendtn. in Britain
Introduction. Physcomitrium eurystomum is rare in Europe and threatened with extinction. This study investigates its status and ecology in Britain. Methods. A detailed search was made for P. eurystomum at all sites where it has been reported in Britain, plus four other locations nearby. Geographic coordinates of colonies were recorded with GPS units and used to derive counts of occupied Ordnance Survey (OS) grid cells at resolutions of 1, 10 and 100 m. DNA barcoding was used to help identify non-fruiting plants. Habitat and community composition were recorded by relevés. Results. In this study Physcomitrium eurystomum was found at five locations, one in Hertfordshire and four in West Norfolk, and occupied 109 OS 1 m grid cells. A small pond in West Norfolk (Wicken Pond) supported the majority (61%) of the population. DNA barcoding helped confirm its occurrence at Wilstone Reservoir (Hertfordshire), at which it was thought extinct. The moss occured exclusively within the drawdown zone of seasonally fluctuating freshwater bodies, both natural and artificial. Vegetation was dominated by vascular plants, most frequently Agrostis stolonifera, Persicaria lapathifolia, Ranunculus sceleratus, Rorippa palustris and Stellaria aquatica. Soil pH varied from strongly acidic to slightly alkaline. Conclusions. Unsuccessful searches of five sites with historic records raises concern for the species. The significant importance of Wicken Pond has not been recognised previously and suggests statutory protection of the site is warranted. The non-native and invasive Crassula helmsii is a major risk to P. eurystomum at sites in Britain and elsewhere in Europe.
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- Award ID(s):
- 1753673
- PAR ID:
- 10159618
- Date Published:
- Journal Name:
- Journal of Bryology
- ISSN:
- 0373-6687
- Page Range / eLocation ID:
- 1 to 12
- Format(s):
- Medium: X
- Sponsoring Org:
- National Science Foundation
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- Free Publicly Accessible Full Text
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Accepted Manuscript1.0
- Journal Article:
- https://doi.org/10.1080/03736687.2020.1743562
