Abstract Detail
Symposia: Emerging Results from Studies of Gymnosperms on the Tree of Life II Little, Damon [1], Stevenson, Dennis Wm. [1]. DNA barcoding gymnosperms: a tool for automated plant identification. Trade in many horticulturally prominent gymnosperms (e.g. cycads) is restricted by CITES (Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species) to prevent collectors from decimating natural populations. Frequently, smugglers will attempt to obscure the identity of restricted plants by removing diagnostic morphological features from specimens. Although the plant will eventually regrow these diagnostic features, their absence greatly complicates identification at control checkpoints. Smugglers however cannot remove the DNA from specimens without profoundly destroying their value. The majority of restricted gymnosperms are listed at the genus or family level to prevent circumvention of the control lists via the description of new species or other forms of "creative" taxonomy. Consequently, plant DNA barcode identifications need only be accurate to the level of genus or family for the majority of plant protection applications. The Consortium for the Barcode of Life (CBoL) has recommended matK and rbcL as the core barcode markers for plants. We have tested these markers in the context of discriminating amongst unlisted plants, CITES listed Appendix 1 plants, and Appendix 2 plants. In combination the core barcode makers are able to distinguish most, but not all, listed species from unlisted species. Broader Impacts:
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1 - The New York Botanical Garden, 200th Street & Southern Blvd., Bronx, NY, 10458, USA
Keywords:
DNA Barcoding
Cycad
CITES
gymnosperm.
Presentation Type: Symposium or Colloquium Presentation
Session: SY1
Location: Ballroom C/Convention Center
Date: Monday, August 2nd, 2010
Time: 8:00 AM
Number: SY1001
Abstract ID:420 | 
