DNA barcoding Australasian chondrichthyans: results and potential uses in conservation

摘要: DNA barcoding – sequencing a region of the mitochondrial cytochrome c oxidase 1 gene (cox1) promises rapid and accurate means species identification, any life history stage. For sharks rays, it may offer ready identifying legal or illegal shark catches, including fins taken for profitable fin market. Here is shown that an analysis sequence variability in 655 bp cox1 from 945 specimens 210 chondrichthyan 36 families permits discrimination 99.0% these species. Only two stingarees Urolophus sufflavus U. cruciatus could not be separated, although readily distinguished eight other congeners. The average Kimura 2 parameter distance separating individuals within was 0.37%, genera 7.48%. Two clustered with congeners rather than their identified species-cluster were noted: represent instances hybridisation (although this has documented chondrichthyans), misidentification mislabelling. It concluded can used to identify ray very high degree accuracy. characteristics five (Aetomylaeus nichofii, Dasyatis kuhlii, leylandi, Himantura gerrardi Orectolobus maculatus) consistent cryptic speciation, suggested taxa subjected detailed taxonomic examination confirm refute suggestion. present study holds out great hope identification sharks, products fins, also highlights some issues need investigated further.