Identifikasi DNA Barcoding dan Status Kekerabatan Ikan Pari yang Didaratkan di Tangkahan Pulau Nias

Abstract

This research aims to identify stingray species on Nias Island and determine the relationship status between them using the DNA barcoding method. DNA barcoding is a molecular technique that uses short genetic sequences of a specific part of an organism's genome, namely the mitochondrial COI (cytochrome c oxidase I) gene, to differentiate species. In this study, stingray tissue samples were collected from several locations on Nias Island, namely Tello Island in South Nias and Lahewa in North Nias. DNA was extracted from several samples and analyzed using the PCR method to amplify the COI gene. The sequencing results are then compared with a reference database to accurately identify the species. Phylogenetic analysis was performed to assess the phylogenetic relationships among the identified species. The research results show that there are several species of stingrays on Nias Island with varying levels of genetic diversity. This study not only enriches biodiversity data in the Nias region but also provides important information for conservation and management efforts of marine resources.