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Public genetic databases like the National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI) are widely used for species identification, but their reliability hinges on trustworthy source material. Unfortunately, researchers often unknowingly submit mislabeled material. Additionally, excessive sequence submissions can skew results. This talk explores the issue of overreliance on public databases for species identification and discusses the necessary attributes of an accurate test. We will examine the challenges of creating accurate genetic tests in spite of database inconsistencies, including misclassified sequences and taxonomic confusion. We provide case studies with Mexican oregano (Lippia graveolens) and Reishi (Ganoderma lucidum, G. lingzhi). Trust in the available accessions can result in incorrect identifications, regulatory missteps, and compromised product integrity. We propose sourcing authenticated botanical reference material (BRM) with sample numbers that represent the complexity of a given species must be the foundation of genetic testing methods.
