Conservation and Ecological Genetics Lab

Noninvasive genetic methods enable the sampling of natural populations while minimizing detrimental effects on them. However, noninvasive methods are marred by DNA extraction and amplification difficulties that can be mitigated by improved methodology. Past studies have shown that noninvasive genetic protocols are system specific and highlighted the importance of pilot studies in the establishment of genetic monitoring programs. We tested, using a factorial design experiment, the effect of different methods for the collection-preservation and extraction on the amplification of DNA from Nubian ibex (Capra nubiana) fecal samples. We found collection-preservation using paper bags and extraction with QIAamp^® fast DNA stool mini kit to significantly enhance success rate compared to collection-preservation in ethanol and extraction with QIAamp^® DNA mini kit. Our results will contribute to the studies of natural populations of the vulnerable C. nubiana.