Empowering National Capacity for DNA-Based Approach to Species Identification and Biodiversity Monitoring
Metabarcoding and Metagenomics, cilt.10, ss.523-546, 2026 (ESCI, Scopus)
- Yayın Türü: Makale / Tam Makale
- Cilt numarası: 10
- Basım Tarihi: 2026
- Doi Numarası: 10.3897/mbmg.10.183268
- Dergi Adı: Metabarcoding and Metagenomics
- Derginin Tarandığı İndeksler: Emerging Sources Citation Index (ESCI), Scopus, BIOSIS, Central & Eastern European Academic Source (CEEAS), Directory of Open Access Journals, Zoological Record, Natural Science Collection (ProQuest), Biological Science Database (ProQuest)
- Sayfa Sayıları: ss.523-546
- Anahtar Kelimeler: Capacity building, DNA (meta) barcoding, national barcoding nodes, reference libraries, science-policy interface, scientific infrastructure
- Ankara Üniversitesi Adresli: Evet
Özet
DNA barcoding has become a cornerstone for species identification and biodiversity monitoring, enabling applications from ecological research to conservation and environmental policy. The International Barcode of Life (iBOL) provides global coordination, but national nodes are essential for implementing barcoding at scale, building local capacity and translating scientific advances into practice. This paper synthesises experiences from 20 countries (17 in Europe), drawing on a survey and a workshop conducted under the Horizon Europe Biodiversity Genomics Europe project. We examine how national nodes are initiated, governed and sustained and identify common challenges, such as defining scope, securing funding, harmonising methods and engaging stakeholders. Most nodes were initiated by research communities and operate as informal networks with heterogeneous governance and staffing models. Key priorities include constructing comprehensive DNA barcode reference libraries, aligning activities with biomonitoring needs and promoting FAIR and CARE data principles. We highlight strategies for capacity building, methodological standardisation and stakeholder engagement, alongside approaches for diversifying funding and strengthening communication. Based on these insights, we present ten practical recommendations to guide the establishment and long-term success of national DNA barcoding nodes. Strengthening these infrastructures will enhance Europe's ability to deliver robust DNA-based biodiversity monitoring, underpin metabarcoding and metagenomic studies and contribute to global efforts in species discovery, conservation and environmental management.