Barcoding the Planet's Plant Species

Hundreds of experts from 50 nations are set to agree on a "DNA barcode" system stored on a global database that will be available to scientists around the world that gives every plant on Earth a unique genetic fingerprint.

"Biodiversity scientists are using DNA technology to unravel mysteries, much like detectives use it to solve crimes," said David Schindel, executive secretary for the Consortium for the Barcode of Life.

"Barcoding is a tool to identify species faster, more cheaply and more precisely than traditional methods, " explained Patricia Escalante, head of the zoology department at Mexico's National University (UNAM), which is hosting the gathering. Mexican researchers are also involved in a network to produce barcodes in key taxonomic groups, such as trees, fungi, bees and aquatic insects.

In an effort to limit the impact on the planet's biodiversity, Dr Escalante said it was vital to establish a reliable monitoring system. "We need an accurate inventory," she observed, "to recognize parasites of medical, economic or ecological importance. The technology will be used in a number of ways, including identifying the illegal trade in endangered species.

The agreement will be signed at the third International Barcode of Life conference in Mexico City on Tuesday.