Unlocking the Genetic Identity of Endangered Orchids: A DNA Barcoding Approach.

Orchids of the genus also called slippers, are among the most valued representatives of the family due to their aesthetic qualities. Due to overexploitation, deforestation, and illegal trade in these plants, especially in the vegetative phase, requires special protection. This genus is listed in Appendix I of the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora. Their precise identification is of great importance for the preservation of genetic resources and biodiversity of the orchid family (). Therefore, the main objective of the study was to investigate the usefulness of the DNA barcoding technique for the identification of endangered orchids of the genus and to determine the effectiveness of five loci: K, L, ITS2, FH and HA as potential molecular markers for species of this genus. Among single locus barcodes, was the most effective at identifying species (64%). Furthermore, K, ITS2, K L, and K HA barcodes can be successfully used as a complementary tool to identify orchids while supporting morphological data provided by taxonomists.