In this episode of Discover Life in America, host Jamie Matzko interviews Paul Super, a research coordinator at Great Smoky Mountains National Park, about the innovative use of DNA barcoding in biodiversity research. They discuss the historical context of research in the Smokies, the significance of environmental DNA, and the challenges of defining species. The conversation highlights the importance of protecting biodiversity and the advancements in DNA barcoding technology that aid in species identification. They also touch on the exploration of understudied taxa in the park, emphasizing the ongoing discoveries in this rich ecosystem. Recorded May 16, 2023