Percent Identity
Definition
The percentage of matching positions within a specified sequence alignment, not the probability of a species identification. Interpret it with sequence length, coverage, quality and the close relatives represented in the reference library.
- Context
- Sequence comparison
For example, a short exact sequence match and a much longer well-supported comparison can both have high percent identity while providing different diagnostic information.
A short exact local match can still provide insufficient diagnostic information.
Related terms
- BOLD
- Barcode of Life Data Systems, a platform for barcode records and identification tools whose individual reference quality needs assessment. Examine the actual...
- COI (Cytochrome C Oxidase I)
- The mitochondrial cytochrome c oxidase I gene; a portion is commonly used as an animal barcode but cannot resolve every species. A...
- Cytochrome B (Cyt B)
- A mitochondrial marker that can supplement particular analyses but does not provide independently inherited nuclear evidence. Cytochrome b is a mitochondrial gene...
- DNA Barcode
- A defined sequence region compared with references for taxonomic identification. COI is widely used for animals, while appropriate markers vary among organism...
- DNA Barcoding
- Use of a defined DNA region and suitable references to assess taxonomic identity, with taxon-specific limits. COI is widely used for animals,...
- Introgression
- Transfer of genetic material across population or species boundaries through hybridisation and subsequent breeding. Mitochondrial markers can therefore be shared despite other...
- Morphological Identification
- Identification from physical characters, which can be useful in immature, puparial and damaged material as well as adults. Appropriate keys and comparison...
- Species Complex
- Closely related taxa whose separation may require suitable additional diagnostic evidence. Appropriate additional characters or markers may improve resolution for particular groups....
- Voucher
- A documented specimen linked to observations or reference data and available for appropriate checking. Retained, documented material can support identification and later...
Explained in
- Molecular Identification of Forensically Important InsectsThe proportion of matched positions within a defined sequence alignment, not a species-membership probability.