Molecular Identification of Color Variants of Procambarus clarkii Using the COI Gene for Taxonomic Validation

Authors

  • Dian Bhagawati Jenderal Soedirman University
  • Muhammad Husein Sastranegara Jenderal Soedirman University
  • Agus Nuryanto Jenderal Soedirman University
  • Anastasia Endang Pulungsari Jenderal Soedirman University
  • Elly Tuti Winarni Jenderal Soedirman University
  • Atang Jenderal Soedirman University
  • Hanan Hassan Alsheikh Mahmoud University of Bahri Khartoum

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.26877/hcaz9264

Keywords:

Procambarus clarkii, COI gene, Color variants, Taxonomic validation, Molecular identification

Abstract

This study addresses taxonomic uncertainty surrounding color variants of Procambarus clarkii in aquaculture and conservation contexts. We investigated whether commercially significant color morphs represent distinct subspecies or phenotypic variations of a single species. Using the cytochrome c oxidase subunit I (COI) gene as a molecular marker, we analyzed four color morphs (blue, white, orange, and brown) from aquaculture facilities in Banyumas Regency. DNA extraction, PCR amplification, and sequencing were performed on 20 specimens. Results showed high sequence homology (98.7-99.8%) across all variants, confirming they belong to a single species. Genetic distance analysis revealed minimal divergence (0.2-1.3%), insufficient for subspecies classification. Phylogenetic reconstruction demonstrated specimens clustered by genetic similarity rather than color or geographic origin, indicating coloration results from genetic mutations rather than environmental adaptations. This COI-based approach provides a molecular framework for taxonomic classification of P. clarkii varieties, with implications for breeding programs, variety certification, and management of this economically important yet potentially invasive species.

Author Biographies

  • Dian Bhagawati, Jenderal Soedirman University

    Faculty of Biology, Jenderal Soedirman University, Purwokerto, Central Java, Indonesia.

  • Muhammad Husein Sastranegara, Jenderal Soedirman University

    Faculty of Biology, Jenderal Soedirman University, Purwokerto, Central Java, Indonesia.

  • Agus Nuryanto, Jenderal Soedirman University

    Faculty of Biology, Jenderal Soedirman University, Purwokerto, Central Java, Indonesia

  • Anastasia Endang Pulungsari, Jenderal Soedirman University

    Faculty of Biology, Jenderal Soedirman University, Purwokerto, Central Java, Indonesia

  • Elly Tuti Winarni, Jenderal Soedirman University

    Faculty of Biology, Jenderal Soedirman University, Purwokerto, Central Java, Indonesia

  • Atang, Jenderal Soedirman University

    Faculty of Biology, Jenderal Soedirman University, Purwokerto, Central Java, Indonesia

  • Hanan Hassan Alsheikh Mahmoud, University of Bahri Khartoum

    College of Natural Resources and Environmental Studies, Department of Fisheries Science, University of Bahri Khartoum, 12217, Sudan

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Published

2025-04-30

Issue

Vol. 7 No. 2 (2025): February-April

Section

Articles