Wildlife forensics using mitochondrial DNA sequences: Species identification based on hairs collected in the field and confiscated tanned Felidae leathers

To identify species based on samples without recognizable morphological characteristics, DNA-based approaches are the best option. Here, we describe two cases of the determination of species and geographical origin of wildlife specimens under the regulation of international treaties and domestic laws related to wildlife management in South Korea. First, hairs of suspected wild or reared endangered Asiatic black bears were analyzed using cytochrome oxidase I and the control region. Confiscated Felidae leathers were also investigated using cytochrome b, but they were proven to be fabricated canine leathers. These results were used as scientific evidence for wildlife-related law enforcement. Our results suggest that unrecognizable wildlife specimens can be identified efficiently using DNA sequence-based analysis. Finally, this study shows that conservation genetics research and its applications can be incorporated into wildlife forensic studies.