MITOCHONDRIAL COI GENE ANALYSIS FOR TAXONOMIC IDENTIFICATION OF PAKISTANI SPECIES

Abstract

Accurate species identification is essential for biodiversity assessment, conservation management, and taxonomic verification. This study utilizes DNA barcoding based on the mitochondrial cytochrome c oxidase subunit I (COI) gene to enable molecular identification of selected species from Pakistan. Specimens were collected from diverse habitats, after which genomic DNA was extracted, and the COI region was amplified via PCR and sequenced.

The obtained sequences were analyzed using BLAST and compared with reference sequences available in public databases, including GenBank and the Barcode of Life Data System (BOLD). Phylogenetic analyses were subsequently performed to evaluate genetic relationships and confirm species-level identifications.

The results demonstrated high sequence similarity with authenticated reference records, allowing clear discrimination among closely related taxa. Observed patterns of genetic divergence supported distinct species boundaries, reaffirming the reliability of the COI gene as a standard DNA barcode marker.

Overall, this study provides validated molecular data that enhance regional biodiversity records and underscores the value of COI-based DNA barcoding as a rapid, accurate, and cost-effective tool for species identification and biodiversity monitoring in Pakistan.