Barcode of Life Database (BOLD)
Definition
An online reference library of DNA barcode sequences (primarily COI gene) linked to voucher specimens in natural history collections. Used to identify unknown specimens by sequence comparison when morphological keys are absent or ambiguous.
Related terms
- Database gap
- The absence of morphological reference data or molecular barcode sequences for the taxa encountered in trade, particularly tropical invertebrates, many freshwater fish,...
- Reference slide library
- A curated collection of prepared microscopy slides (hair scale casts, feather cross-sections, bone histology sections) from verified species, maintained for comparison against...
- USFWS National Wildlife Forensics Laboratory
- The US federal wildlife forensics laboratory in Ashland, Oregon. Holds over 40,000 reference specimens and provides identification services for US enforcement cases...
- Voucher specimen
- A preserved specimen formally deposited in a collection or retained in the case file as a permanent reference. In forensic entomology, the...
- Zoological Survey of India (ZSI)
- India's primary national natural history collection and taxonomic research institution, providing comparative specimens and taxonomic expertise for wildlife forensic identification in South...
Explained in
- Morphological Keys and Reference CollectionsAn online reference library of DNA barcode sequences (primarily COI gene) linked to voucher specimens in natural history collections. Used to identify unknown...