Multiplex PCRs for the specific identification of marsupial and deer species from faecal samples as a basis for non-invasive epidemiological studies of parasites

摘要: The specific identification of animals through the analysis faecal DNA is important in many areas scientific endeavour, particularly field parasitology. Here, we designed and assessed two multiplex PCR assays using genetic markers a mitochondrial cytochrome b (cytb) gene region for unequivocal discrimination animal species based on amplification from samples collected water catchment Victoria, Australia. One these differentiates three marsupial (eastern grey kangaroo, swamp wallaby common wombat) other distinguishes deer (fallow, red sambar deer). We tested total 669 samples, as part an ongoing programme to monitor parasites microorganisms animals. These are entirely achieve analytical sensitivities 0.1–1.0 picogram (pg). found that some previous inferences morphology were erroneous. able molecularly authenticate all samples. have established accurately distinguish prominent large mammalian herbivores within system state marsupials produce amplicons easily differentiable their size agarose gel, can be readily sequenced definitive authentication. Although deer, methodology used here applied host-parasite study systems ensure data integrity.