Does the freshness at the time of collection affect the DNA recovery from anoa fecal samples?
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Mentor Information
Michelle Green
Description
The Bubalus depressicornis, otherwise known as the lowland anoa, are an endemic mammal to Sulawesi, Indonesia and are listed by the IUCN as an endangered species. There are many threats that are contributing to the future extinction of the anoa, the main one being human impact. Conservation efforts have been taking place in order to attempt possible restoration of the species. Investigation of genetic diversity using molecular approaches such as microsatellites markers have been used to determine the low genetic diversity in the lowland anoa. Genetic diversity is important in populations as it encourages the survival of a species, however, it can be lost as the population decreases. Traditional sampling includes blood or tissue which could negatively impact this vulnerable species. Therefore, noninvasive genetic assessment through fecal analysis is a viable option. Non-invasive genetic assessments provide highly effective results without the need to capture or harm the species. DNA quality can be affected by several things including the freshness of the sample when collected. This study compares the recovery of DNA from fecal samples of varying freshness at time of collection. We hope to provide information to conservationists in Indonesia to apply in the wild and save the lowland anoa with these findings.
Does the freshness at the time of collection affect the DNA recovery from anoa fecal samples?
The Bubalus depressicornis, otherwise known as the lowland anoa, are an endemic mammal to Sulawesi, Indonesia and are listed by the IUCN as an endangered species. There are many threats that are contributing to the future extinction of the anoa, the main one being human impact. Conservation efforts have been taking place in order to attempt possible restoration of the species. Investigation of genetic diversity using molecular approaches such as microsatellites markers have been used to determine the low genetic diversity in the lowland anoa. Genetic diversity is important in populations as it encourages the survival of a species, however, it can be lost as the population decreases. Traditional sampling includes blood or tissue which could negatively impact this vulnerable species. Therefore, noninvasive genetic assessment through fecal analysis is a viable option. Non-invasive genetic assessments provide highly effective results without the need to capture or harm the species. DNA quality can be affected by several things including the freshness of the sample when collected. This study compares the recovery of DNA from fecal samples of varying freshness at time of collection. We hope to provide information to conservationists in Indonesia to apply in the wild and save the lowland anoa with these findings.
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Poster Presentation