The Misapplication of DNA Barcodes to Taxonomic Classification

Authors

Taylor Southwick, Brigham Young University
Dr. Keith Crandall, Brigham Young University

Keywords

misapplication, DNA barcodes, taxonomic classification

College

Life Sciences

Department

Biology

Abstract

The classification of organisms into different taxa is a central issue in biology. If similar organisms are grouped together, then comparative analyses can be used from the genome to the systems level to understand how they work, both biologically and behaviorally. There are two ways to perform this classification: morphologically and phylogenetically. Morphological demarcations are based on visual differences in anatomical structure and physiological function. Phylogenetic classification is based upon the evolutionary relationship among the individuals in the population quantified by the similarity or dissimilarity of their DNA strands.

Recommended Citation

Southwick, Taylor and Crandall, Dr. Keith (2013) "The Misapplication of DNA Barcodes to Taxonomic Classification," Journal of Undergraduate Research: Vol. 2013: Iss. 1, Article 1103.
Available at: https://scholarsarchive.byu.edu/jur/vol2013/iss1/1103