DNA Barcoding and Biodiversity of Commercially Important Fishes (Actinopterygii) from Middle Bank, Penang, Malaysia: A First Report

Abstract Middle Bank is a significant marine area located off the coast of Penang, Malaysia. This study utilized the use of DNA barcoding to detect fish diversity at Middle Bank using the mitochondrial cytochrome c oxidase subunit I (COI) gene as a marker. A total of 23 COI sequences were successfully analyzed, representing 14 species from 13 genera and 11 families of marine fishes. The sequences were 651 base pairs in length. Results show that 11 fish taxa were newly recorded, contributing to a total of 150 marine fish species documented in the area. This is the first report on the biodiversity of commercially important fishes in Middle Bank waters based on molecular data, providing significant insights into the richness of Middle Bank’s biodiversity. Continued monitoring and conservation efforts are essential to ensure the sustainability of this marine habitat and to preserve the benefits it offers to Penang Island.