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Decoding Biodiversity in Baiyangdian Lake: A DNA Barcode Reference Library for Aquatic Insects.
Ya-Jun Qiao1,2, Ze-Peng Wang1, Meng-Yu Lv3
1School of Chemical and Environmental Engineering, China University of Mining and Technology (Beijing), Beijing 100083, China.
Insects
|January 28, 2026
Summary
Researchers created a DNA barcode library for aquatic insects in Baiyangdian Lake, aiding biodiversity monitoring and conservation efforts. This molecular tool supports ecological restoration evaluation and environmental DNA applications in freshwater ecosystems.
Area of Science:
- Ecology
- Molecular Biology
- Conservation Science
Background:
- Freshwater ecosystems face significant threats, necessitating robust biodiversity assessments for effective conservation.
- Baiyangdian Lake, a major northern Chinese freshwater body, is recovering from ecological degradation due to restoration initiatives.
- Molecular tools, such as DNA barcoding, offer precise methods for biodiversity monitoring.
Purpose of the Study:
- To construct the first comprehensive DNA barcode reference library for aquatic insects in Baiyangdian Lake.
- To establish a molecular foundation for monitoring biodiversity changes during ecological recovery.
- To assess the utility of the cytochrome c oxidase subunit I (COI) gene for aquatic insect identification.
Main Methods:
- Systematic sampling of aquatic insects across Baiyangdian Lake habitats from January 2023 to May 2025.
- DNA extraction, PCR amplification, and sequencing of the COI gene for 315 specimens.
- Phylogenetic analysis (maximum likelihood) and genetic distance calculations to evaluate species discrimination.
Main Results:
- A reference library of 315 high-quality COI sequences was generated, representing 104 species, 74 genera, and 33 families across eight insect orders.
- Diptera (especially Chironomidae) and Odonata exhibited the highest species diversity.
- A significant barcode gap (mean intraspecific divergence 0.46%, nearest-neighbor divergence >15%) confirmed COI's efficacy for species identification, with strong congruence between molecular and morphological taxonomy.
Conclusions:
- The established COI DNA barcode library is a valuable resource for aquatic insect identification in Baiyangdian Lake.
- The library supports ongoing ecological restoration evaluation and facilitates environmental DNA (eDNA) based biodiversity assessments.
- This molecular framework enhances regional biodiversity conservation strategies for vulnerable freshwater ecosystems.
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