Fish Two Ways:? An Interdisciplinary Investigation of Biodiversity

 

Robyn A. Puffenbarger & Kimberly J. Bolyard

Advances in Biology Laboratory Education, 2020, Volume 41

https://doi.org/10.37590/able.v41.art49

Supplemental Materials: https://doi.org/10.37590/able.v41.sup49

Abstract

Identification at the species level is a challenge for both novice and experienced biologists. Traditionally, morphology is used for identification of specimens. It is challenging to use a dichotomous key based on morphological traits for species identification in organisms like vertebrate fishes. Since DNA sequencing is cheap and efficient, molecular information via DNA barcoding can help assist identification studies. For students, this is a multi-lab activity that works through two ways to identify fish species from local streams using morphology and DNA.

Keywords:  dissection, morphology, Biodiversity, DNA barcoding

University of Ottawa (2019)