Construction of a genus-level rbcL DNA barcode reference library for Korean vascular plants

This study presents the first comprehensive DNA barcode reference library for vascular plant genera native to the Korean Peninsula, based on the plastid rbcL gene. Special attention was directed toward evaluating genera reported as endemic to Korea, with the aim of assessing their systematic placement. These results were compared with existing molecular phylogenetic studies in the literature to confirm or reevaluate their taxonomic distinctiveness. DNA barcoding has emerged as a powerful tool in ecology, evolution studies, and conservation biology, but its effectiveness depends on the availability of robust reference databases. The reference library developed in the present study includes native flowering plants, conifers, and ferns of Korea and demonstrates high genus-level discrimination using rbcL sequences. Most of the sequences were derived from intensive studies of nationwide field collections and herbarium specimens encompassing the entire Korean Peninsula conducted over the past decade, enabling comprehensive taxonomic representation and facilitating practical DNA-based species identification. While DNA barcoding proved effective for genus-level identification, complex taxonomic groups may require additional markers for species-level resolution. This national DNA barcode reference provides a foundational resource for various applications, including new species discovery, ecological monitoring, food safety assessment, and biodiversity management. The contribution of the National Institute of Biological Resources (NIBR) through this work also supports intellectual property protection and strengthens Korea’s capacity in the areas of plant systematics and biodiversity science.