Question

Mitochondrial DNA can be used to identify a species based upon

A) NADH dehydrogenase sequences.
B) variation in the mitochondrial rRNA genes.
C) the 648 bp DNA bar code region.
D) the proportion of GC base pairs.
E) the size of the mitochondrial genome.

Answer 1

Mitochondrial DNA can be used to identify a species based on variation in the mitochondrial rRNA genes, the DNA barcode region, and the proportion of GC base pairs.

Step-by-step explanation:

Yes, mitochondrial DNA can be used to identify a species. One common method is by analyzing the variation in the mitochondrial rRNA genes. These genes are highly conserved across species, but there can be small differences between individuals or groups. By comparing the rRNA sequences, scientists can determine if two organisms belong to the same species or different species.

Another approach is through the use of a DNA barcode region. This is a specific region of mitochondrial DNA that is highly variable between species. By sequencing and comparing the DNA barcode region, scientists can identify the species based on the unique sequence.

The proportion of GC base pairs in mitochondrial DNA can also be used to differentiate between species. Different species may have different proportions of GC base pairs, which can be determined through DNA sequencing.