Species Identification and Biodiversity Assessment Through DNA Barcoding: A Case Study of Butterfly

Abstract

DNA barcoding has been developed as a revolutionary molecular technique for species identification and biodiversity assessment. Targeting short, standardized stretches of DNA-the most widely used being the mitochondrial cytochrome c oxidase I (COI) gene in animals-it enables quick, reproducible, and economical species identification, including morphologically cryptic taxa. This chapter emphasizes on the concepts, methods, and various applications of DNA barcoding with special reference to butterflies as model organisms. From DNA sequencing, PCR amplification, DNA extraction and specimen sampling to sequencing and bioinformatic analysis, the workflow forms a reliable framework for species discovery and ecological monitoring.