Project:

Testing Extraction Protocols for Non-Destructive Sampling of Especially Small Arthropod Specimens

Students:

Hillary Poalacin, Ryan Gabelman, Isabella Lin

Institution:

City University of New York/New York Botanical Garden, The Bronx

Mentors:

Luke Sparreo

Abstract:

The minute size (less than 1mm) of certain arthropod specimens such as mites means that effective non-destructive DNA extraction is difficult. Yet, due to limited taxonomic work on mites, leaving vouchers behind after barcoding is often necessary. Unfortunately, efficient or cost-effective ways of DNA extraction from mite specimens have not been thoroughly studied, limiting progress on acarological research. We hypothesize that while destructive methods will result in greater DNA quantities, nondestructive methods will still provide sufficient amounts of genetic material for phylogenetic analysis. We will also provide the first direct comparison of Chelex and Qiagen extraction protocols on small mites. A further goal of this research is to prepare for future study on potential coevolution of Sarraceniopus, a group of mites, and Sarracenia, their plant hosts.

Poster: