Plant DNA Barcode as a Tool for Root Identification in Hypogea: The Case of the Etruscan Tombs of Tarquinia (Central Italy)

Researchers successfully employed DNA barcoding to identify plant rootlets threatening the Etruscan tombs of Tarquinia, demonstrating its efficacy as a rapid and reliable tool for assessing vegetation risks in underground historical sites. Using four genetic markers (rbcL, matK, nrITS, and psbA-trnH), all 14 root samples were identified at species (92.9%) or genus level (7.01%). Notably, certain eudicotyledons with taproots, such as Echium italicum and Foeniculum vulgare, showed recurrence, suggesting their potential for deeper root penetration. The study underscores the need for expanded reference datasets and further investigations to validate these findings, particularly for meso-Mediterranean perennial herbaceous species. These results highlight the importance of proactive vegetation management in archaeological sites to mitigate mechanical and chemical damage from invasive roots.

Isola, D., Bartoli, F., Langone, S., Ceschin, S., Zucconi, L., & Caneva, G. (2021). Plant DNA Barcode as a Tool for Root Identification in Hypogea: The Case of the Etruscan Tombs of Tarquinia (Central Italy). Plants, 10(6), 1138. https://doi.org/10.3390/plants10061138