DArT™ and Biodiversity

Dr. Steve Hughes, professor at the Center for Genomics in Society at Exeter University, led a project using DArT to examine the genetic diversity of a protected otter population in England. During the 1950s, the otter population in the UK was decimated by the profligate use of organo-chlorine pesticides. Since the level of pesticide application began its decline, anecdotal evidence suggests a resurgence in the otter population. If the population has in fact recovered, it may serve as a model for the recovery of other top-level predators.

Dr. Hughes and his team collected DNA from individual otter feces (spraint) and analyzed them to determine the number of otters present in the system. Although the method they were using was capable of differentiating otter DNA from the DNA of prey, and of distinguishing males from females, it was slow, tedious, and provided a level of information that was ultimately insufficient, particularly in regard to polymorphic data from the samples.

DArT looks to be a better option for the research team. It promises to provide the low-cost, high throughput capabilities the researcher team seeks, while simultaneously enabling them to analyze a much greater level of genetic data. Preliminary evidence suggested that DArT could be used to identify potentially polymorphic representatives within the otter population, and if this is true it will enable researchers to analyze polymorphic data on a much larger scale than the method used previously. This information may provide further insight into the population's genetic diversity, mating patterns, and other behavioral traits.

Currently, Dr. Hughes is looking for other investigators who are interested in applying DArT to analyses of biodiversity. To learn more about DArT or to contribute to the discussion of DArT and Biodiversity, visit the DArT forum.

CAMBIA Login