Nagaland: First time molecular study in Tuensang finds 62 species

Guwahati: DNA barcodes provide a quick, accurate, and affordable way to identify species, even those that are challenging to differentiate based on morphology or life stage.

Researchers from St Joseph University, Dimapur, have collected and identified 62 species from Tuensang which included insects, spiders, lizards, birds, and mammals, using DNA barcodes. Molecular characterization of species from the Tuensang area of Nagaland was done for the first time.

Tuensang is one of Nagaland’s largest and most eastern districts and the animal species were collected from selected areas of Tuensang Town, Tuensang Village, Hakchang Village, Helipong Village, Ngangpong Village, Sangchen compound village, Chendang Village, Chingmei village and Momching village. Field research uses different techniques, such as hand collection, pitfall traps, sweep netting, snares, catapults, and air guns.