Identification of sibling mice species (genus Mus) by a simple immunological test

An immunological test that can be made on living animals is developed to identify M. m. musculus mice from the two other short-tailed mice ( M. spicilegus and M. spretoides ) occurring in Eastern Europe. This test uses fractionated albumin antiserum as an immunological marker and is performed using dot-blot immunoassay. One hundred and twelve animals belonging to the three species and originating from wild-caught mice and from laboratory strains were tested. All the M. m. musculus mice were correctly identified with this test. Owing to its simplicity and reliability, this test will be very useful in field surveys, particularly in the zone of sympatry between M. m. musculus and M. spicilegus .