DNA barcoding: Tool for assessing species identification in Reptilia

Reptiles are an important group of cold blooded vertebrates that have significant ecological and evolutionary significance. Species identification of reptiles is generally based on morphological characters. With the advancement of modern molecular techniques, the concept of DNA barcoding has gained global attention. Here we discuss the concept of DNA barcoding and its role in identification, molecular phylogenetic studies, biodiversity assessment and conservation of reptiles. Since very few barcoding studies have been conducted on reptiles till date, there is need for global barcoding initiative exclusively for reptiles.