Journal article
An evaluation of DNA sample source and molecular markers to determine gender in the short-beaked echidna (Tachyglossus aculeatus)
L Hulse, C Tomsett, A Roser, L Clark, H Meer, M Pyne, JC Fenelon, MB Renfree, S Johnston
Zoo Biology | Published : 2024
DOI: 10.1002/zoo.21809
Abstract
The short-beaked echidna is sexually monomorphic such that gender identification without veterinary intervention is challenging. The aim of this study was to evaluate and compare the most optimal noninvasive genetic source by extracting echidna genomic DNA (gDNA) from fecal scats, plucked hair, and quills to perform genetic sex testing using a range of molecular markers. Sex determination of 14 captive short-beaked echidnas was determined by amplifying isolated DNA from noninvasive samples, targeting two Y chromosome (male-specific) genes (mediator complex subunit 26 Y-gametologue [CRSPY] and anti-Müllerian hormone Y-gametologue [AMHY]), in addition to four confirmed sex-specific RADseq mark..
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Grants
Awarded by Australian Research Council
Funding Acknowledgements
We are grateful to the zookeepers, management, and volunteers of Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary and Hospital that provided support for sample collection, husbandry, and allowed us access to the captive echidna population for analysis. Funding for this project was provided by the Australian Research Council (ARC) through the ARC Linkage Grant (LP160101728) administered through the University of Melbourne in collaboration with the University of Queensland.