Identification of Insect Species Through Molecular Analysis by PIDC Service
The Plant and Insect Diagnostic Clinic (PIDC) has expanded its insect identification services, now offering a molecular identification method in addition to the standard microscope identification. This new service, developed by the Fraunhofer Institute for Molecular Biology and Applied Ecology (Fraunhofer IME), is particularly useful for challenging samples, such as broken ones, immature insects, or specimens for which traditional diagnostic keys cannot be applied due to unavailable physical features or incompatible equipment.
The molecular identification process begins with the extraction of the insect's DNA. A reference sample of a specific species is then uploaded to a database for species-level identification. The process includes several steps, and it can fail at any point. However, each step will be repeated up to two times without additional charges.
During the molecular identification, a target strand is replicated, and the sequence of DNA from the target region is obtained. This sequence is then compared to sequences of other organisms in a large database to determine the insect's identity. Most of the time, molecular identification can confirm samples to at least the genus level.
It's important to note that the molecular identification process will only continue if necessary to better inform on the insect's biology, assist with a client's specific situation, or if microscopic identification is unsuccessful. The $35.00 cost for molecular identification includes a $10.00 basic identification fee, which is charged for all samples, regardless of the success of the molecular identification process.
For the most up-to-date information on PIDC services, terms, and policies, visit the PIDC website. To request a molecular identification, first submit the $10.00 basic insect ID service on the sample submission form and check the additional box for molecular insect ID if available.
The standard microscope insect identification service remains available for $10.00, offering a more affordable option for straightforward insect identification needs. Regardless of the chosen method, PIDC is committed to providing accurate and reliable identification services to help clients better understand and manage their insect-related issues.
