A non-invasive genetic method to identify the sympatric mustelids pine marten (Martes martes) and stone marten (Martes foina): preliminary distribution survey on the northern Iberian Peninsula

摘要: The closely related mustelids European pine marten (Martes martes) and stone foina) sympatrically inhabit a large area of Europe. However, given our limited knowledge their bioecological relationships, extremely elusive behaviour the fact that faeces cannot be distinguished on basis morphology alone, it is very difficult to monitor populations. In this study, we describe reliable non-invasive polymerase chain reaction (PCR)–restriction fragment length polymorphism (PCR-RFLP) method for distinguishing between M. martes foina based analysis deoxyribonucleic acid extracted from samples. was specifically designed avoid possible interference potential prey mammals other sympatric carnivores. procedure consists PCR amplifying mitochondrial D-loop region followed by digesting resulting 276-bp-long amplicons with restriction enzymes HaeIII RsaI. To assess efficiency technique, conducted preliminary field study across distribution areas both species in northern Iberian Peninsula. Out 359 samples collected, identified 80 as specimens 235 marten. Unequivocal identification thus 88% collected. These findings reveal combined use genetic sampling GIS technology cost-effective improving spatial distributions species. This protocol could also used identify improve information gaps, develop effective research management programmes population landscape genetics studies