Using DNA barcoding to differentiate invasive Dreissena species (Mollusca, Bivalvia).
The zebra mussel (Dreissena polymorpha) and the quagga mussel (Dreissena rostriformis bugensis) are considered as the most competitive invaders in freshwaters of Europe and North America. Although shell characteristics exist to differentiate both species, phenotypic plasticity in the genus Dreissena does not always allow a clear identification. Therefore, the need to find an accurate identification method is essential. DNA barcoding has been proven to be an adequate procedure to discriminate species. The cytochrome c oxidase subunit I mitochondrial gene (COI) is considered as the standard barcode for animals. We tested the use of this gene as an efficient DNA barcode and found that it allow rapid and accurate identification of adult Dreissena individuals.
Laboratory of Evolutionary Genetics and Ecology, Research Unit in Environmental and Evolutionary Biology, Department of Biology, University of Namur, 61 rue de Bruxelles, 5000 Namur, Belgium.
Jonathan
J
Marescaux
Laboratory of Evolutionary Genetics and Ecology, Research Unit in Environmental and Evolutionary Biology, Department of Biology, University of Namur, 61 rue de Bruxelles, 5000 Namur, Belgium.
Karine
K
Van Doninck
COI; RFLP; barcoding gap; quagga mussel; zebra mussel