A simple sexing test for elephant species and its application to faecal DNA

Bourgeois, Stéphanie; Ouitavon, Kanita; Kongmee, P.; Veeramaethaphan, T.; Kaden, Jenny; McEwing, Ross

doi:10.1007/s13353-021-00627-2

Cited by 4 publications

(3 citation statements)

References 14 publications

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“…On the other hand, genetic methods have also been employed to determine the sex in various animal species [ 40 , 41 , 42 , 43 , 44 ]. However, there are several limitations to conducting DNA assays in fecal samples for determining sex.…”

Section: Discussionmentioning

confidence: 99%

“…The presence of polymerase chain reaction inhibitors in feces can also interfere with DNA amplification, limiting the reliability and sensitivity of sex determination assays or introducing variability in marker sequences [ 57 , 58 , 59 ]. According to previous estimates, the cost of DNA testing for sex determination is approximately USD 1 per sample, excluding labor costs and only considering the expenses for reagents and plates [ 41 ]. The estimation of the costs for the four hormonal determinations per fecal sample is around USD 0.8 in our laboratory.…”

Section: Discussionmentioning

confidence: 99%

“…Furthermore, the combination of mathematical models and experimental approaches becomes a valuable tool to assess the responses to stimuli made by the endocrine system [ 38 , 39 ]. In addition, molecular studies using DNA testing in feces to determine sex have been also carried out in many wild animals, such as in rhinoceroses [ 40 ], elephants [ 41 ], wild dogs [ 42 ], lemurs [ 43 ] or bovids [ 44 ], among others. However, this type of study requires a particularly specific and complex methodology in a specialized laboratory.…”

Section: Introductionmentioning

confidence: 99%

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Predicting Sex in White Rhinoceroses: A Statistical Model for Conservation Management

Martínez

Andrés

Caperos

et al. 2023

Animals

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Ensuring the effective management of every rhinoceros population is crucial for securing a future for the species, especially considering the escalating global threat of poaching and the challenges faced in captive breeding programs for this endangered species. Steroid hormones play pivotal roles in regulating diverse biological processes, making fecal hormonal determinations a valuable non-invasive tool for monitoring adrenal and gonadal endocrinologies and assessing reproductive status, particularly in endangered species. The purpose of this study was to develop a statistical model for predicting the sex of white rhinoceroses using hormonal determinations obtained from a single fecal sample. To achieve this, 562 fecal samples from 15 individuals of the Ceratotherium simum species were collected, and enzyme immunoassays were conducted to determine the concentrations of fecal cortisol, progesterone, estrone, and testosterone metabolites. The biological validation of the method provided an impressive accuracy rate of nearly 80% in predicting the sex of hypothetically unknown white rhinoceroses. Implementing this statistical model for sex identification in white rhinoceroses would yield significant benefits, including a better understanding of the structure and dynamics of wild populations. Additionally, it would enhance conservation management efforts aimed at protecting this endangered species. By utilizing this innovative approach, we can contribute to the preservation and long-term survival of white rhinoceros populations.

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