A sensitive and specific multiplex PCR approach for sex identification of ursine and tremarctine bears suitable for non‐invasive samples |
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| Authors: | Tobias Bidon Christiane Frosch Hans G Eiken Verena E Kutschera Snorre B Hagen Siv G Aarnes Steven R Fain Axel Janke Frank Hailer |
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| Institution: | 1. LOEWE Biodiversity and Climate Research Centre (BiK‐F), Senckenberg Gesellschaft für Naturforschung, , 60325 Frankfurt am Main, Germany;2. Conservation Genetics Group, Senckenberg Research Institute and Natural History Museum, , 63571 Gelnhausen, Germany;3. Frankfurt Zoological Society, , 60316 Frankfurt am Main, Germany;4. Bioforsk Soil and Environment, Svanhovd, Norwegian Institute for Agricultural and Environmental Research, , NO‐9925 Svanvik, Norway;5. National Fish and Wildlife Forensic Laboratory, , Ashland, 97520 OR, USA;6. Evolution & Diversity, Goethe University, Institute for Ecology, , 60323 Frankfurt am Main, Germany |
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| Abstract: | We report a new approach for molecular sex identification of extant Ursinae and Tremarctinae bears. Two Y‐specific fragments (SMCY and 318.2) and one X‐specific fragment (ZFX) are amplified in a multiplex PCR, yielding a double test for male‐specific amplification and an internal positive control. The primers were designed and tested to be bear‐specific, thereby minimizing the risk of cross‐amplification in other species including humans. The high sensitivity and small amplicon sizes (100, 124, 160 base pairs) facilitate analysis of non‐invasively obtained DNA material. DNA from tissue and blood as well as from 30 non‐invasively collected hair and faeces yielded clear and easily interpretable results. The fragments were detected both by standard gel electrophoresis and automated capillary electrophoresis. |
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| Keywords: | bears molecular sexing multiplex PCR non‐invasive
Ursidae
Ursus arctos
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