National Nakdong River Biological Resources Institute holds insect gene analysis class for high school students

The National Nakdong River Biological Resources Institute said Thursday it conducted a gene analysis class for students in the future insect industry department at Korea Future Agriculture High School in Sangju, teaching them how to identify insect species using genetic information.

The session was part of an ongoing education initiative the institute has run since 2024 to nurture future talent in the local community.

The program was designed to help students understand the principles of species identification using insect genetic data and gain hands-on experience with laboratory procedures used in biological resources research.

The technique, known as DNA barcoding, identifies species by analyzing specific segments of an organism's DNA. It is used alongside morphological observation and proves especially useful when visual identification alone is difficult — as with insect eggs or larvae.

The session combined a theory class covering the principles and applications of gene analysis with practical exercises using actual insect samples. Students gained direct experience with the fundamentals of genetic analysis and the principles behind species identification.

The session marked the final installment of a three-part specialized insect education program held this year. The two earlier sessions focused on preparing professional-grade insect specimens and identifying species based on morphological characteristics.

Ryu Si-hyeon, head of the institute's biodiversity conservation research division, said the education was expected to broaden students' understanding of insect resources and help them explore career paths in biological resources research and the insect industry.