DNA metabarcoding of hidden biodiversity in the Mediterranean Basin

2018

One of the most remarkable features of Mediterranean-type regions worldwide is their high levels of biodiversity. However, it is striking that we still know so little about many of its taxa, particularly regarding the invertebrates. This is regrettable, because Mediterranean biodiversity is threatened by a range of factors that include land use changes, overexploitation of natural resources and global climate changes. As a consequence, biodiversity assessments and biomonitoring studies are more urgent than ever, as they provide critical baselines for planning and monitoring conservation programs. For many species groups, key obstacles to the development of comprehensive biodiversity surveys…