Project:

Identification of Invertebrate Species in the Peconic River Using DNA Barcoding

Students:

Jacob Coggin, Jameson Mortensen, John Berkowitz

School:

Eastport South Manor Junior-Senior High School, Suffolk

Mentors:

Robert Bolen

Abstract:

Aquatic macroinvertebrate samples will be collected from the Peconic River for DNA barcoding. The COI gene will be extracted and compared to a DNA database to identify organisms. Genetic biodiversity is important because it provides populations with the genetic variation necessary to adapt to environmental changes and resist diseases, while species biodiversity is important because a greater variety of species leads to more stable ecosystem. Seine nets will be used to collect tiny organisms like dragon fly larvae, snails, and water boatmen. Samples will be placed in single tubes with 1 milliliter of 99% ethanol. Samples are stored in a freezer until needed for DNA extraction.

Poster:

Team samples:

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