Application of DNA barcoding technique in the investigation of order Halymeniales (Rhodophyta) diversity along the Brazilian Coast

Abstract

Halymeniales (Rhodophyta) presents a wide ecological and economical importance, as primary producers and bioactive compounds producers, but exhibits a problematic taxonomy, with reports of misidentifications and nomenclatural changes. In order to complement the morphological taxonomy, the molecular assisted-alpha taxonomy, including the use of DNA barcodes, has been proposed. The DNA barcoding technique consists in the utilization of short standardized genomic regions associated to taxonomic entities, and is considered a helpful tool for rapid taxonomic assessments. Considering the lack of studies on the systematics of Halymeniales in Brazil, the diversity of the group is possibly underestimated. In this context, this study aims to investigate the diversity of these algae along the Brazilian coast, in order to contribute to the knowledge of native marine flora. To accomplish it, COI-5P (primary marker) and rbcL-3P (secondary Marker) sequences will be generated and compared to other molecular markers. Finally, molecular analysis output, along with interspecific and intraspecific divergences will be compared to morphological data in order to verify the species diversity of the order in Brazil. (AU)