This world-leading project is investigating DNA barcode and stable isotope technologies as a means of determining the species identity and geographic origin of exotic insects intercepted in New Zealand.

With the potential to supply biosecurity authorities with valuable information required for operational decisions, the programme explores state-of-the-art analytical techniques that aim to make current border diagnostic practices more efficient and flexible.

Post-doctoral research is illustrating the potential for DNA barcoding to be a truly global approach to border species identification, while more fundamental PhD research is evaluating how stable isotope signatures, that vary spatially based on locality-specific biogeochemical process, can be interpreted.

This project is funded by the Tertiary Education Commission (TEC).