Project:

Analyzing Tarantula Biodiversity with CO1 Gene Barcoding

Students:

Victoria Tillman, Charlotte Allen, Julia Taphouse, Olivia Tillman

School:

Eastport South Manor Junior-Senior High School, Suffolk

Mentors:

Robert Bolen

Abstract:

Research of different tarantula species diversity will be determined using DNA barcode technology to investigate the importance of the genetic diversity within the species of tarantula. Exploring these themes can offer an introspective view on the identification of these species without using any morphological characteristics. With samples of tarantula molts from the DNA Learning Center, DNA is extracted using the silica extraction method, and DNA barcoding of the COI mitochondrial gene is used to determine the diversity of tarantulas to promote conservation and better understand tarantula distribution. It is important to measure and conserve biodiversity because biodiversity is essential for functioning and healthy ecosystems. This affects the general well-being of our planet and all species, including humans. There is limited knowledge of species diversity because many tarantula species look physically similar due to convergent evolution (live in similar but isolated habitats and hav

Team samples:

See all samples for project