Assembling a barcode reference library for caddisflies, TrichopteraBOL -the first step towards automated environmental bioassessment

DNA barcoding provides reliable species identification through the comparison of the nucleotide sequence from a short, standardized mitochondrial DNA fragment with a DNA barcode reference library built on expertly-identified specimens. Consequently, the building of the barcode reference library of freshwater aquatic macroinvertebrates is the first step towards an automated, high-throughput approach to evaluate and monitor water pollution using bio-indicators through DNA barcoding. The Trichoptera Barcode of Life (TrichopteraBOL) campaign is building a barcode reference library for all caddisfly species. Since its launch in mid-2007, the project has obtained expertly identified specimens from various sources: natural history museums, bio-blitz surveys, and research materials of molecular systematists. The pros and cons of each of these sources have been recognized during the assemblage of the library. Benefiting from the contribution of various disciplines of trichopterology studies, TrichopteraBOL has made steady progress towards its ultimate goal. Particularly, approximately 50% of the North American caddisfly species, including most of the species encountered in biomonitoring/bioassessment programs, have been barcoded. This presentation will present the current status of the caddisfly barcode reference library, summarizing its potential contributions to trichopterology studies and to biomonitoring applications.