Genetic sampling for estimating density of common species.

摘要: Understanding population dynamics requires reliable estimates of density, yet this basic information is often surprisingly difficult to obtain. With rare or difficult-to-capture species, genetic surveys from noninvasive collection hair scat has proved cost-efficient for estimating densities. Here, we explored whether sampling (NGS) also offers promise a relatively common the snowshoe hare (Lepus americanus Erxleben, 1777), in comparison with traditional live trapping. We optimized protocol single-session NGS hares. compared spatial capture-recapture trapping derived NGS, and assessed costs. provided similar those trapping, but higher density plots was required NGS. The optimal our study entailed deploying 160 4 days genotyping one pellet per plot. laboratory costs ranged approximately $670 $3000 USD field site. While does not incur costs, its can be considerably than especially when sites are access. conclude that work it will require pilot testing develop cost-effective protocols.