| Individual genetic monitoring
of white-tailed sea eagles |
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This study uses individual DNA
profiling to help monitor reintroduced populations of white-tailed sea
eagles in Scotland.
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Conservation genetics of scimitar-horned oryx |
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The S-H oryx is critically endangered
and subject to several captive breeding and reintroduction projects.
This work applies conservation genetic data to inform SHO population management.
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Genetic identification of illegally traded ramin |
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This project developed a simple
genetic test for identifying wood products originating from CITES-listed
ramin species.
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Development of a Hen Harrier DNA profiling system for wildlife enforcement
and conservation management |
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Collaborators: A. Iyengar, M. Thomas
(UCLAN), S. Downing (Wildlife Consultant)
This project aims to develop DNA profiling techniques to allow the individual
identification of Hen Harriers for use in bird persecution cases and Hen
Harrier management. |
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Molecular ecology of golden eagles |
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Monitoring golden eagle population
turnover using non-invasive genetic sampling. Using DNA profiles to identify
individual golden eagles, this project will examine the patterns of breeding
success and dispersal of wild populations in Scotland. DNA is being collected
from moulted feathers and mouth swabs. |
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Paternity identification Dorcas gazelle |
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Effective captive population management
requires accurate pedigree records in order to direct breeding maximise
conservation of genetic diversity. This project used DNA profiling to
identify paternity in Dorcas gazelle, allowing pedigree records to be
verified. |
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Monitoring goshawk persecution using DNA |
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This project aims to examine the
different rates of turnover between persecuted and non-persecuted nest
sites in the Scottish Borders. DNA profiling of goshawks will enable individual
birds to be monitored. The data obtained will be compared with PIT-tag
data to provide a comprehensive picture of goshawk population dynamics. |
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Population structure in Addax nasomaculatus |
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This project aimed to assess the
possible sub-species status of Addax nasomaculatus populations in captivity.
Using historical and contemporary samples, we sequenced the mitochondrial
control region to compare differences in wild addax from different regions |
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Genetic variability in Rocky Mountain Big Horn
Sheep |
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Big horn sheep
have been extensively researched to examine levels of genetic diversity
at both microsatellite loci and the MHC complex, in order to inform conservation
management. This project focussed on a previously unstudied population
of big horn sheep, measuring diversity within the group and comparing
the results with data from other western USA populations. |
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Adaptive variation in the red walnut, Juglans
regia |
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The red walnut,
native to central and western Asia, displays variation in a number of
morphological and physiological traits throughout its range. This study
utilised provenance trials and measures of population genetic structure
to investigate potential adaptive traits in this locally important tree
species. |
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Species verification in hamadryas baboons at
Paignton Zoo, U.K. |
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This project aimed to investigate the presence of non-hamadryas
baboon DNA within the existing hamadryas population, caused by possible
historic hybridisation. Using a combination of species-specific genetic
markers and detailed pedigree information, it was possible to assess the
likelihood of past hybridisation events. |
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Sex determination in two-toed sloths |
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Captive breeding
programmes rely on knowing the sex of individuals that are being paired
together, however this is not always straightforward. Morphological sex-determination
is extremely difficult in many species including the two-toed sloth. In
order to avoid invasive veterinary procedures, WDNAS were able to assist
the zoo by undertaking a series of genetic sex tests based on DNA extracted
from hair samples. Tests were corroborated by sequencing sections of the
mammalian SRY gene amplified from male sloths. |
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Paternity analysis in Grevy’s zebra |
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The objective of this study forMarwell Zoo was to assess the ability to
assign paternity in Grevy’s zebra populations using DNA recovered
from blood, hair and faecal samples. DNA profiles were generated for each
sample type using a set of thirteen microsatellites. The technique was
then successfully used to identify individual zebras involved in the European
Endangered Species Breeding Programme. |
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Genetic population assessment of red squirrels
in North Wales |
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Red squirrels have been declining across Wales over the past fifty years.
A project to conserve one of the last remaining populations is running
on the island of Anglesey. WDNAS were contracted to examine levels of
genetic diversity within the population and examine the genetic structure
of Welsh red squirrels within the U.K. Results indicate much reduced genetic
diversity relative to populations in northern England.
Publication (Ogden et al 2005.pdf) |
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DNA recovery & species identification of
historical textile whale baleen |
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The extensive use of whale-baleen in historical clothing manufacture
has resulted in the preservation of whale products in textile conservation
projects. Working with the Textile Conservation Centre, WDNAS has been
able to recover DNA from baleen removed from an 18th century corset. Sequence
data identified it as belonging to a historical right-whale population.
Further funding is currently being sought to extend this research. Publication
(Eastop & McEwing 2004.pdf) |
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Identification of otter populations from spraint
analysis |
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The return of otters to the rivers of North Wales has been recorded from
observations of footprints and otter spraint, but there is very little
information about where they have returned from and in what number. This
study using DNA recovered from fresh spraint has shed light on the source
populations moving back into the region and approximate numbers that are
now present. |
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