The application of next-generation sequence-based DNA barcoding for bloodmeal detection in host-seeking wild-caught Ixodes scapularis nymphs.

ABSTRACT:

Objective

Our objective was to apply next-generation sequence-based DNA barcoding to identify the remnant larval bloodmeals in wild-caught host-seeking (unengorged) Ixodes scapularis nymphs (n = 216). To infer host species identification, vertebrate DNA was amplified using universal primers for cytochrome c oxidase subunit I (COI) and sequenced using next-generation sequencing (NGS) for comparison against known barcode references.

Results

Bloodmeal identification was unsuccessful in most samples (99% of 216 specimens) demonstrating a very low detection rate of this assay. Sequences that surpassed quality thresholds were obtained for 41.7% of nymphs (n = 90) and of those, confident species identification was obtained for 15.6% of nymphs (n = 14). Wild host identifications wer

SUBMITTER: Lumsden GA 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC7891142 | biostudies-literature | 2021 Feb

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature