Molecular identification of Italian commercial shellfish species

The DNA analyses based on molecular techniques such as AFLP, RFLP, microsatellites, and especially DNA barcoding by direct sequencing of mitochondrial genes, are actually considered helpful tools for a wide range of applications. Molecular markers could provide informations about food quality, traceability, safety and authenticity. The identification of species by DNA barcoding is useful to reveal food frauds and mislabbelling of food products and it is also essential to characterize reproductive stocks for aquaculture purpose. In particular, our research is aiming to obtain the genetic profiles of the reproductive stocks of different shellfish species, that represent important sources for the economy of Italian aquaculture. The DNA barcoding uses a direct sequencing method based on diagnostic sequences derived from species-specific mitochondrial DNA cytochrome oxidase subunit I (COI) and 16S rDNA (16S). This technique revealed a high capacity to discriminate commercial shellfish species such as the manila clam Tapes philippinarum, the native Italian clam Tapes decussatus, and the mussel Mytilus galloprovincialis. Results referred to the three species collected in the North Adriatic sea are also compared with data available for other geographic areas to assess genetic diversity of Italian seafood products. Therefore, the molecular techniques represent a powerful tool not only for the authentication of shellfish products, but also for protection of wildlife fauna, and the sustainable yield of natural resources.