| Specimen Submission |
Specimen assembling protocols
DNA barcodes are collected and associated with individual specimens. Thus the specimens that are used for DNA barcoding need to be preserved individually, each with a unique sample ID. In contrast to all other DNA depository databases, the Barcode of Life Data System (BOLD, http://www.barcodinglife.org) holds detailed information for all specimens that are used for barcoding, such as collection date, locality, taxonomy, sex, life stage, coordinates, elevation, specimen image, etc. All information is associated with the original voucher specimen via its unique sample ID. Additionally, DNA sequence and the original trace files (the raw electropherograms from which the DNA sequences were read) are linked to the specimen after a barcode is generated.
Caddisfly specimens are routinely assembled into compact containers, such as Matrix boxes and Lysis plates. A Matrix box is a plastic container that each hold 96 tubes organized in a format that is compatible with PCR plates used in most molecular labs. Each of the 94 tubes in the box (2 are left empty as negative controls) holds one individual specimen, which is tagged with a unique sample ID. Along with the Matrix box, two Excel spreadsheets are provided so collaborators can record the position of each specimen and relevant information (collection information, taxonomy, etc.).
Imaging protocol
Specimen contributors are encouraged to submit specimen images to BOLD. Each specimen entry may be associated with multiple photographs taken from various aspects of the specimen.
|
|
|
Progress Reports