Abstract
The 5′ region of the mitochondrial DNA gene cytochrome c oxidase subunit I (COI) is the standard marker for DNA barcoding. However, 16 S rRNA has also been advocated for DNA barcoding in many animal species. Herein, we directly compare the usefulness of COI and 16 S rRNA in discriminating six cultivable carp species: Labeo rohita, Catla catla, Cirrhinus mrigala, Labeo fimbriatus, Labeo bata and Cirrhinus reba from India. Analysis of partial sequences of these two gene fragments from 171 individuals indicated close genetic relationship between Catla catla and Labeo rohita. The results of the present study indicated COI to be more useful than 16 S rRNA for DNA barcoding of Indian carps.
Acknowledgements
The authors are grateful to the Director, CIFA for facilities and to the Department of Science and Technology (DST), New Delhi for financial assistance. Assistance for collection of riverine samples by team members of ICAR funded project Outreach activity on Fish Genetic stocks is highly acknowledged.
Declaration of interest
The authors report no conflicts of interest. The authors alone are responsible for the content and writing of the article.