From Traps to Taxa: Building a Robust DNA Barcode Reference Library for the Early Detection of Invasive Cerambycidae

Area of Science:

• Entomology
• Genomics
• Biosurveillance

Background:

• Accurate insect identification is vital for biosurveillance and managing invasive species.
• DNA barcoding relies on comprehensive and accurate reference databases, which are often incomplete or contain errors.
• Longhorned beetles (Cerambycidae) are significant in European biosurveillance due to their interception in traps.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop a curated DNA barcode reference library for longhorned beetles (Cerambycidae).
• To improve the reliability of DNA barcoding for insect identification in biosurveillance and ecological research.

Main Methods:

• Compilation of 4097 DNA barcodes from 169 species of longhorned beetles.
• Prioritization of taxonomic validation and data quality for library creation.
• Utilizing multi-pheromone traps in European biosurveillance programs.

Main Results:

• A robust DNA barcode reference library for 169 Cerambycidae species was established.
• The library enhances accurate specimen identification for biosurveillance.
• The curated data supports ecological research by identifying bioindicator species.

Conclusions:

• Expert curation is essential for accurate DNA barcode libraries.
• The developed library is a valuable resource for pest monitoring and biodiversity assessment.
• High-quality barcode data strengthens biosurveillance effectiveness and ecological research capabilities.