Sharks and rays are increasingly being identified as high-risk species for extinction, prompting urgent assessments of their local or regional populations. Advanced genetic analyses can contribute relevant information on effective population size and connectivity among populations although acquiring sufficient regional sample sizes can be challenging. DNA is typically amplified from tissue samples which are collected by hand spears with modified biopsy punch tips. This technique is not always popular due mainly to a perception that invasive sampling might harm the rays, change their behaviour, or have a negative impact on tourism. To explore alternative methods, we evaluated the yields and PCR success of DNA template prepared from the manta ray mucus collected underwater and captured and stored on a Whatman FTA™ Elute card. The pilot study demonstrated that mucus can be effectively collected underwater using toothbrush. DNA stored on cards was found to be reliable for PCR-based population genetics studies. We successfully amplified mtDNA ND5, nuclear DNA RAG1, and microsatellite loci for all samples and confirmed sequences and genotypes being those of target species. As the yields of DNA with the tested method were low, further improvements are desirable for assays that may require larger amounts of DNA, such as population genomic studies using emerging next-gen sequencing.

At a time when society appears mistrustful of science, it is critical to understand how scientific credibility is evaluated. Scientists often view the peer review process as establishing the credibility of their science, operating under the assumption that sound design and rigorous analysis stand alone. However, scientific knowledge is sometimes rejected by the very stakeholder groups that it is intended to serve. To understand how fisheries stakeholders assess scientific credibility, marine resource stakeholders from Maine were asked to discuss perceptions of credible science. Text analysis of six small group conversations revealed that stakeholders evaluate credibility based on communication style, relationships, and relatability. These attributes are self‐reinforcing and are influenced by transparency. We present examples of how efforts to promote transparency and trust can be incorporated into scientists’ stakeholder engagement strategies and propose that researchers consider these commitments within their respective fields before they design and implement scientific projects, so they may be assigned greater credibility outside of the scientific community.

13Sharks and rays are increasingly being identified as high-risk species for extinction, 14prompting urgent assessments of their local or regional populations. effectively collected underwater using a toothbrush. DNA stored on cards was found to be 24 reliable for PCR-based population genetic studies. We successfully amplified mtDNA ND5, 25 nuclear DNA RAG1, and microsatellite loci for all samples. As the yields of DNA with the 26 tested method were low, further improvements are desirable for assays that may require larger 27 amounts of DNA, such as population genomic studies using emerging next-gen sequencing.

13Sharks and rays are increasingly being identified as high-risk species for extinction, 14prompting urgent assessments of their local or regional populations.