Taxonomic study
Description
Taxonomic study allows us to classify, identify, and characterize biological organisms —whether plants, fungi, algae, or microorganisms—according to their genus and species.
This analysis is essential to ensure the authenticity, traceability, and conformity of natural raw materials used in the botanical, cosmetic, nutraceutical, and quality control sectors.
morphological, biochemical and molecular approaches , this study provides reliable scientific identification, essential to prevent species errors, fraud or substitutions in supply chains.
Analytical methods and principles
The taxonomic study is based on several levels of analysis:
- Morphological observation : microscopic examination of structures (leaves, spores, hyphae, thalli, etc.) for an initial identification based on shape and texture.
- Biochemical analysis : detection of specific metabolic markers (pigments, enzymes, secondary metabolites) using techniques such as HPLC chromatography or infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) .
- Genetic identification (DNA barcoding) : sequencing of one or more universal genetic markers (rbcL, ITS, COI, matK) allowing the sequences obtained to be compared to reference databases. This molecular approach guarantees precise identification to the species .
These methods can be combined to enhance diagnostic reliability, particularly in the case of processed, dried or mixed samples.
To learn more, also discover:
- DNA barcoding for molecular species identification,
- analysis by PCR for the detection of specific species,
- and the dosage of secondary metabolites by HPL C for biochemical characterization.
Industrial applications
Taxonomic study finds applications in many fields:
- Botany and research : classification and identification of plant or fungal species in collections, herbaria or scientific databases.
- Cosmetics and phytotherapy : authentication of natural extracts, essential oils or plant powders to avoid species substitutions.
- Nutraceuticals and food : verification of the botanical composition of functional ingredients, food supplements and herbal products.
- Environment and ecology : monitoring biodiversity, identification of invasive species or ecological traceability.
- Industrial quality control : validation of the taxonomic conformity of natural raw materials used in the manufacture of products.
These analyses guarantee safety, regulatory compliance and transparency in the production chain, while strengthening the confidence of the end consumer.
Analytical interest and complementarity
The taxonomic study can be coupled with other analytical tests for a complete characterization of the samples:
- Metagenomic analysis to study the microbial diversity of a complex environment;
- Dosage of phenolic compounds to link the chemical profile to the botanical origin;
- FTIR infrared spectroscopy to verify the molecular composition of natural extracts;
- DNA purity analysis to ensure the quality of genetic material before sequencing.
These integrated approaches allow for complete and verified identification , from morphological structure to genetic profile.
YesWeLab Services
YesWeLab provides you with a network of partner laboratories specialized in molecular biology, taxonomy and biochemical analyses , accredited ISO 17025 and/or COFRAC .
Our experts support you at every stage: choice of method, sample preparation, interpretation of results and technical recommendations.
Thanks to the YesWeLab digital platform , you can centralize your analysis requests, track your samples and access your reports online. Since 2020, YesWeLab has been supporting manufacturers and researchers in the plant, cosmetics and nutraceutical sectors with their biological authentication needs.
For a quote or custom taxonomic identification, contact our scientific team today.
