DNA Barcoding and Forensics
In our example, what are some reasons for the mismatch between the expected species (Harpagophytum procumbens) and the species identity suggested by BOLD (Harpagophytum zeyheri)?
Answer the following questions based on your case file samples. According to your BOLD search, what is the species identity of the each sample in the case study you chose? What are the common names of these species?
What is the percent identity value for the top result of each search?
Do these species identities match the putative identity of each sample?
Why do you think we got matches to both Harpagophytum procumbens and Harpagophytum zeyheri for our sample?
Answer the following questions based on your case file samples. According to your GenBank search, what is the species identity of your three samples? What are the common names of these species?
What is the percent identity value for the top result of each search?
Do the species identities from the GenBank search match the species identities from the BOLD search?
Answer the question that matches the case file you chose.
Herbal Medicine Investigation Do you think the herbal medicine manufacturers are being truthful in their advertising? If not, would you recommend any regulatory action against them?
Suspected Parrot Smuggling Should the man who was arrested at the airport be prosecuted for parrot smuggling? If so, should he face additional penalties (for attempting to smuggle endangered or migratory species)?