What is another word for genetic marker?
Pronunciation: [d͡ʒɛnˈɛtɪk mˈɑːkə] (IPA) 
A genetic marker is a specific DNA sequence or gene that can be used to identify and track genetic traits from one generation to the next. Synonyms for genetic marker include molecular marker, DNA marker, genetic locus, and polymorphic marker. Molecular markers can be further divided into two main types: PCR-based markers (such as RAPD, AFLP, and SSR), and sequencing-based markers (such as SNPs and Indels). PCR-based markers detect polymorphisms in the DNA sequence that surrounds a target gene, while sequencing-based markers detect polymorphisms within the gene itself. The use of genetic markers has revolutionized many areas of biology, from evolutionary studies to forensics and agriculture.
