Utilizing DNA Barcoding and Bioinformatics to Identify Plant Species on NNU Campus

Background: Dr Ronald Strohmeyer at NNU had his research students utilize DNA barcoding as a tool to extract DNA from different plants on campus. Then, the identified plants got labeled and a plaque was made to show their information to all who pass by the campus. DNA barcoding is a way to identify species when normal taxonomy isn’t suffice. Methods: First, different plant samples were collected from the NNU campus. Second, performed either of two protocols; Carolina and Wizard. Third, amplified the DNA by polymerase chain reaction. Fourth, analyzed the polymerase chain reaction by gel electrophoresis. And lastly, used bioinformatics to review results. Results: We collected a total of 16 plant samples, and identified 14. Conclusion: All the plants samples collected were already known species found in an online database. Plaques could now be made to identify these plants on campus for all to observe