[Campbell Biology P.137] A conservation team discovers a large number of illegally trafficke... | Practice Question

A conservation team discovers a large number of illegally trafficked rare plant samples. Based on the principles of 'Conservation Biology' described in the text, what is the most effective way genomics can aid their investigation?

  • A: By performing carbon dating on the samples to determine their exact age and thus the timing of their harvest.
  • B: By analyzing the nutrient content of the soil clinging to the roots to identify the original growing conditions.
  • C: By sequencing the DNA of the plant samples to identify the exact species and compare genetic markers to a database to pinpoint their geographic origin and track down illicit operations.
  • D: By cross-referencing the physical characteristics of the plant samples with historical botanical records to confirm their rarity.

Explanation

The 'Conservation Biology' section states: 'The tools of molecular genetics and genomics are increasingly used by forensic ecologists to identify which species of animals and plants are killed illegally. In one case, genomic sequences of DNA from illegal shipments of elephant tusks were used to track down poachers and pinpoint the territory where they were operating.' This principle applies directly to illegal plant samples.