Efficacy of DNA sequencing on samples of terrestrial invertebrates 2018-19

Invertebrate samples collected using Natural England survey protocols will be analysed using appropriate DNA techniques, to provide a comparison to traditional techniques (data will be supplied). Information will be collected to ascertain the following for each of the two methods: - How reliable and accurate is the DNA species identification? - How much does each method cost (in time and money)? - How long does the identification process take? - Can abundance be inferred as part of DNA sequencing?

In addition, the following questions should be addressed: - How reliable is BOLD, or other databases available to the contractor, for undertaking invertebrate identification? A reference collection will not be made available. - Is there a need to review collection and storage methods for DNA sequencing of terrestrial invertebrates?

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