Effective DNA barcoding depends on the quality of the biological material. Following this simple sampling protocol will ensure proper preservation of biological samples for DNA studies.
For mammals, fish, birds and large invertebrates
1. Freeze whole individual specimens in plastic bags; use a write-on label to record vessel/expedition name/code, locality or station number, latitude and longitude, date, species name and collectors name. Store labelled specimens in freezer.
2. For large specimens that are impractical to freeze and return to the lab, take a small piece of muscle tissue from any location on the body (a half thumb size piece of muscle tissue) and freeze in a labelled clip-top mini-grip bag or a cryo-vial. Label the bag/vial with vessel name/code, locality or station number, date, species name, and name of scientist making the identification. Photograph the whole specimen before discarding, and cross reference the digital photo to the tissue sample code. It is essential that species-diagnostic characters can be seen on the photograph.
3. Avoid formalin work areas for handling specimens.