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New taxonomy and old collections: integrating DNA barcoding into the collection curation process
N Puillandre1, P Bouchet, M-C Boisselier-Dubayle
1UMR 7138, Muséum National d'Histoire Naturelle, Departement Systematique et Evolution, 43, Rue Cuvier, 75231 Paris, France. puillandre@mnhn.fr
Molecular Ecology Resources
|January 7, 2012
Summary
Natural history museums can lead DNA barcoding by linking specimen data with molecular information. A robust vouchering system ensures data integrity from collection to publication for biodiversity research.
Area of Science:
- Biodiversity research
- Molecular systematics
- Museum informatics
Background:
- Natural history museums possess extensive collections and sequencing capabilities, positioning them for DNA barcoding advancements.
- Effective vouchering systems are crucial for maintaining specimen-data links throughout the research lifecycle.
Purpose of the Study:
- To establish best practices for DNA barcoding in natural history museums.
- To pilot a comprehensive data management system for marine biodiversity barcoding.
Main Methods:
- Implementation of a dual-database system linking specimen data with molecular information (tissue, DNA, PCR).
- Development of web-based tools for automated data upload, quality control, and database submission.
- Integration of field sampling, identification, molecular processing, and data deposition.
Main Results:
- Successfully piloted the Marine Barcode of Life (MarBOL) project for marine mollusks and crustaceans.
- Vouchered approximately 41,000 sequences, producing around 11,000 COI sequences.
- Established a linked system ensuring data traceability from specimen to online databases like BOLD and GenBank.
Conclusions:
- The developed system effectively integrates specimen data and molecular information, crucial for DNA barcoding.
- Natural history museums are vital hubs for advancing DNA barcoding best practices and data management.
- Collaborative efforts enhance the scope and success of large-scale biodiversity barcoding initiatives.
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