Why Nuclear Ribosomal Internal Transcribed Spacer (ITS) has been Selected as the DNA Barcode for Fungi?

Abstract

The application of DNA sequences of standardized genetic markers for the identification of eukaryotic organisms is known as DNA barcoding. Based on a recent study by a multinational and multilaboratory fungal barcoding consortium, the nuclear ribosomal internal transcribed spacer (ITS) has been selected as the DNA barcode for fungi. DNA barcoding shows tremendous promise for the organisms rapid identification at the species level. Recently, DNA barcodes are used for identification of fungal species in marine sediments.