Estimating population size by genotyping faeces

摘要: Population size is a fundamental biological parameter that difficult to estimate. By genotyping coyote (Canis latrans) faeces systematically collected in the Santa Monica Mountains near Los Angeles, California, we exemplify general, non-invasive method census large mammals. Four steps are involved estimation. First, presumed along paths or roadways where coyotes, like most carnivores, often defaecate and mark territorial boundaries. Second, DNA extracted from species identity sex determined by mitochondrial Y-chromosome typing. Third, hypervariable microsatellite loci typed faeces. Lastly, rarefaction analysis used estimate population faecal genotypes. This readily provides point count of ratio. Additionally, show home range use paternity kinship can be inferred distribution relatedness patterns