Individual identification of red deer (Cervus elaphus) based on DNA extractions from faeces.

Recent advances in molecular genetic techniques have made it possible to genotype DNA extracts from non-invasive samples such as hair, faeces, and urine. Subsequent identification of individuals from such material has allowed estimation of important parameters such as population size, immigration rate, and reproductive contribution from immigrants, even without handling the animals. This thesis presents a pilot study assessing the reliability of using faecal samples for genotyping in red deer. The test was preformed on samples of blood and faeces from 42 farmed animals, using six microsatellites. The reliability of the method was assessed through a multiple-tube approach and by comparing faecal genotypes with the corresponding genotypes obtained from blood. DNA of sufficient quality to be genotyped for all six loci was extracted from 23 faeces samples (54.8 %) by a silica-based method. Allelic drop-out was found in 7.7 % of the amplifications from extracts of faeces. Comparison of blood and feces samples showed that correct consensus genotypes were obtained at all loci and samples already after the three first replicates. Probability of identity were estimated to PI = 6.5 x 10-6 for unrelated individuals and PI = 8.0 x 10-3 for siblings. These results suggest that DNA extracted from red deer faeces is a viable source for obtaining reliable individual genotypes, and that it can be achieved by a limited number of replicates