Individual identification and sex determination of Eurasian otters (Lutra lutra) in Daegu city based on genetic analysis of otter spraint

The Eurasian otter, Lutra lutra, is a well known endangered species in South Korea that experienced rapid population decreases through poaching and industrialization until the 1980’s. To evaluate the genetic diversity and the existing number of otters recently found in Daegu City, 81 fecal samples collected from the Gumho River and Shincheon stream were subjected to DNA extraction for sex determination and genetic analysis using nuclear genetic markers. Individual identification and relatedness between individuals were detemined by genotypic data using twelve microsatellite loci, and sex identification was also determined based on sequence variation of the zinc finger protein gene on sex chromosomes. Our results showed that at least seven otter individuals were identified and the kinship relationships of seven individual pairs were determined. It was concluded that otters distributed widely in Daegu City have moderate levels of genetic diversity, and close monitoring of the small-sized otter population is necessary to promote successful settlement of the otters in the area.