Microbiology and Biotechnology Research: An Overview Vol. 6

DNA barcoding has emerged as a powerful molecular tool for the precise identification of diverse organisms. However, information regarding the DNA barcoding of ant species in the Kalaburagi region remains limited. In this context, the present study (2022–2024) was undertaken to generate DNA barcode data for three ant specimens collected from varied microhabitats using hand collection, pitfall traps, and aspirators within the Chincholi Wildlife Sanctuary, Kalaburagi, Karnataka, India. Standardised mitochondrial Cytochrome Oxidase Subunit I (COI) gene fragments (~650 bp) were successfully amplified and sequenced for all three species. The unique nucleotide sequences obtained were deposited in the GenBank database with accession numbers PX453292 (Camponotus singularis), PX453294 (Crematogaster brunnea), and PX453302 (Monomorium indicum). Multiple sequence alignment was performed using Clustal-W in MEGA 11.0, followed by phylogenetic reconstruction employing the Neighbour-Joining and Maximum Likelihood methods. The resulting phylogenies clearly delineated the three species and confirmed their taxonomic placement within their respective genera. This study provides the first baseline DNA barcode reference library for ants of the Chincholi Wildlife Sanctuary. The results are congruent with previously reported COI data of ant species from other regions of India and abroad. Importantly, this work represents the first record of C. singularis and C. brunnea from Karnataka, highlighting the ecological significance of the sanctuary and underscoring the need for continued biodiversity assessments. The findings strongly support DNA barcoding as a rapid, reliable, and integrative tool for ant identification, complementing traditional morphological taxonomy. Broader sampling efforts, combined with molecular techniques, will significantly advance species-level identification and contribute to understanding the diversity of semi-arid ecosystems in southern India.