Usefulness of DNA Barcoding in Ecotoxicological Investigations: Resolving Taxonomic Uncertainties Using Eisenia Malm 1877 as an Example

Abstract

Standard test species may differ in their response to toxicants. Accurate identification of test organisms is therefore of critical importance in correctly interpreting data generated from laboratory assays. This is not always possible when species are morphologically similar or where the taxonomy of the group has recently been revised. A case in hand concerns Eisenia sp. Based on recent genetic evidence two species, Eisenia andrei and Eisenia fetida, which were previously considered a single species, are currently recognized. In these instances, DNA barcoding, demonstrated and discussed herein, provides a method to accurately identify test organisms.