Harnessing the power of genomics to protect Europe’s biodiversity

Democratising DNA barcoding By Kasia Fantoni OPENBAR – Open Barcoding for All Researchers is a Biodiversity Genomics Europe plus initiative to democratise DNA barcoding across taxa, regions, and research scales through standardised solutions. Third-generation sequencing technologies have enabled ultra-low-cost, high-throughput DNA barcoding using portable platforms such as the ONT MinION. However, technical and financial barriers still limit widespread adoption of decentralised workflows. OPENBAR will consolidate, benchmark, and expand proven protocols to democratise DNA barcoding across taxa, regions, and research

Species discovery, yes. But also genetic diversity Protecting European biodiversity requires not only a detailed assessment of the species present in an ecosystem, but also a full characterization of the genetic diversity of populations. This diversity is what ultimately determines their ability to adapt, recover, and thrive in a changing world. Genomic technologies have drastically improved our ability to monitor biodiversity and guide conservation and restoration policies and actions. Biodiversity Genomics Europe plus (BGE+) builds