Genetic Diversity of Tropical Plant Species Revealed by DNA Metabarcoding Using Oxford Nanopore Sequencing

Abstract

Genetic diversity is a fundamental component for understanding plant adaptation, conservation, and ecosystem stability. DNA metabarcoding has emerged as an effective molecular approach for assessing plant genetic diversity at the community level. This study aimed to evaluate the genetic diversity of tropical plant species using DNA metabarcoding combined with Oxford Nanopore sequencing technology. Total genomic DNA was extracted from pooled plant samples and amplified using universal plant barcode primers. Sequencing was performed using the Oxford Nanopore platform, and the resulting reads were analyzed to identify taxonomic composition and genetic variation. The results demonstrated that Nanopore-based metabarcoding successfully detected diverse plant taxa and revealed substantial genetic variation among samples. This approach provides a rapid and cost-effective method for assessing plant genetic diversity, with significant implications for biodiversity monitoring and conservation strategies.