Table 6 Alternative DNA extraction methods
Commonly used alternative DNA extraction methods | Advantages | Disadvantages |
|---|---|---|
“directPCR”: “contaminating” a PCR reaction with the DNA of the target organism by adding the entire specimen or a tissue sample into the PCR reagent mix (Wong, Tay et al. 2014). | • No cost • No waiting time obtaining for template | • Time-consuming when subsampling is needed (antenna, leg) • Low success rate for heavily sclerotized specimens • No DNA template left after PCR |
Commercial DNA extraction buffers: e.g., QuickExtract: 10 μl sufficient for obtaining DNA template from most insect specimens (Srivathsan, Hartop et al. [35]) | • Long shelf life of buffers • Template stays viable for weeks • Additional DNA can be obtained through re-extraction of specimen | • Moderate costs (< 0.20 USD) • DNA in leftover templates degrades within weeks/months |
Commercial DNA extraction kits: e.g., DNeasy Blood & Tissue Kits | • Template is stable | • High cost (> 1 USD) • Time-consuming |