DNA barcoding: complementing morphological identification of mosquito species in Singapore.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Taxonomy that utilizes morphological characteristics has been the gold standard method to identify mosquito species. However, morphological identification is challenging when the expertise is limited and external characters are damaged because of improper specimen handling. Therefore, we explored the applicability of mitochondrial cytochrome C oxidase subunit 1 (COI) gene-based DNA barcoding as an alternative tool to identify mosquito species. In the present study, we compared the morphological identification of mosquito specimens with their differentiation based on COI barcode, in order to establish a more reliable identification system for mosquito species found in Singapore.

Methods

We analysed 128 adult mosquito specimens, belonging to 45 species of 13 genera.

SUBMITTER: Chan A 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC4282734 | biostudies-literature | 2014 Dec

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature