Taxonomic study

Taxonomic analysis allows for the classification, identification, and characterization of biological organisms —whether plants, fungi, algae, or microorganisms—according to their genus and species.
This analysis is essential to guarantee the authenticity, traceability, and conformity of natural raw materials used in the botany, cosmetics, nutraceutical, and quality control sectors.

morphological, biochemical and molecular approaches , this study provides reliable scientific identification, essential for preventing species errors, fraud or substitutions in supply chains.

Analytical methods and principles

Taxonomic study is based on several levels of analysis:

• Morphological observation : microscopic examination of structures (leaves, spores, hyphae, thalli, etc.) for 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 comparison of the obtained sequences to reference databases. This molecular approach guarantees precise species identification .

These methods can be combined to enhance diagnostic reliability, particularly in the case of processed, dried, or mixed samples.

To learn more, also check out:

• DNA barcoding for the molecular identification of species,
• analysis by PCR for the detection of specific species,
• and the quantification of secondary metabolites by HPL C for biochemical characterization.

Industrial applications

Taxonomic studies have 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 of 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 ensure safety, regulatory compliance and transparency in the production chain, while strengthening the confidence of the end consumer.

Analytical interest and complementarity

Taxonomic analysis can be combined with other analytical tests for a complete characterization of the samples:

• Metagenomic analysis to study the microbial diversity of a complex environment;
• Determination 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 guarantee the quality of genetic material before sequencing.

These integrated approaches allow for a complete and verified identification , from morphological structure to genetic profile.

YesWeLab Services

YesWeLab provides you with a network of partner laboratories specializing in molecular biology, taxonomy, and biochemical analyses , accredited to ISO 17025 and/or COFRAC .
Our experts support you at every stage: method selection, sample preparation, results interpretation, 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.

To obtain a quote or a personalized taxonomic identification, contact our scientific team today.