Fast-tracking bespoke DNA reference database generation from museum collections for biomonitoring and conservation

Area of Science:

• Genomics
• Conservation Biology
• Bioinformatics

Background:

• High-throughput DNA sequencing advances are hampered by a lack of relevant DNA reference databases.
• Museum collections offer valuable genetic material but often yield degraded samples.
• DNA-based biodiversity monitoring is essential for conservation and biosecurity.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop a sensitive and efficient process for generating DNA barcodes from museum specimens.
• To create a foundation for DNA-based biodiversity assessments and monitoring.
• To address challenges of sample degradation and low DNA yield.

Main Methods:

• Utilized the Illumina MiSeq system for simultaneous DNA barcode generation from multiple invertebrate specimens.
• Developed a laboratory and bioinformatic workflow optimized for degraded samples.
• Implemented a taxonomy-informed process to identify correct DNA barcodes from sequencing output.

Main Results:

• Successfully recovered 98% of COI barcodes (full-length or partial) from 450 national collection-held invertebrate specimens.
• Generated full-length barcodes from 146 specimens with low DNA yield and no visible PCR bands.
• Demonstrated high sensitivity, recovering barcodes from samples with minimal DNA input.

Conclusions:

• The developed approach is highly sensitive, accurate, and efficient for targeted reference database generation.
• This method overcomes limitations posed by degraded DNA in museum specimens.
• Provides a robust foundation for DNA-based biodiversity monitoring and conservation strategies.