Question

The method of DNA barcoding allows cataloguing of an organism using rapid sequencing methods. The choice of which gene to use for barcoding is guided by its rate of evolution. Which genes are most useful for barcoding non-plant eukaryotes?

a) Chloroplast genes
b) Nuclear genes
c) Ribosomal genes
d) Mitochondrial genes

Answer 1

Mitochondrial genes are the most useful for barcoding non-plant eukaryotes because they have a high rate of evolution, making them ideal for distinguishing between species.

Step-by-step explanation:

The most useful genes for barcoding non-plant eukaryotes are mitochondrial genes. DNA barcoding involves sequencing a specific section of genetic code, and mitochondrial genes have a high rate of evolution, making them ideal for distinguishing between species. Other genes, such as nuclear genes and ribosomal genes, are also used for barcoding, but mitochondrial genes are typically the most informative.