Thar she blows! A novel method for DNA collection from cetacean blow.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Molecular tools are now widely used to address crucial management and conservation questions. To date, dart biopsying has been the most commonly used method for collecting genetic data from cetaceans; however, this method has some drawbacks. Dart biopsying is considered inappropriate for young animals and has recently come under scrutiny from ethical boards, conservationists, and the general public. Thus, identifying alternative genetic collection techniques for cetaceans remains a priority, especially for internationally protected species.

Methodology/principal findings

In this study, we investigated whether blow-sampling, which involves collecting exhalations from the blowholes of cetaceans, could be developed as a new less invasive method for DNA collection. Ou

SUBMITTER: Frere CH 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC2928266 | biostudies-literature | 2010 Aug

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature