Simple, Robust Invertebrate DNA Barcoding: Chelex-Based DNA Extraction and Optimized COI Amplification

Abstract

Chelex-based DNA extractions are well suited for student DNA barcoding research because they are simple, safe, and inexpensive and can be performed without specialized laboratory equipment, allowing them to be performed in classrooms or at home. Extracted DNA is stable in Chelex solution for at least a week at ambient temperature, allowing collection of DNA samples from remote students. These extractions provide quality DNA for many taxa and are optimal for barcoding invertebrates, especially in combination with novel cytochrome c oxidase I (COI) primer cocktails and PCR cycling conditions.

Keywords: Ant; Biology; COI; CURE; Chelex; Course-based undergraduate research; DNA barcoding; DNA extraction; Education; High school research; Invertebrate; PCR; Remote learning.