MOLECULAR MARKERS IN THE MANAGEMENT AND CONSERVATION OF WILD FAUNA

Abstract

The technological advancement of the molecular biology discipline has increased our ability to analyze DNA (deoxyribonucleic acid), molecule which concentrates genetic information. Molecular markers constitute a tool of great use to plan, make decisions and undertake actions in the management and conservation of wild fauna. This study describes the use of this molecular methodology in the context of management and conservation of wild fauna and cites the studies where it has been used. The sources to obtain the DNA are diverse and the methodology to do it varies according to these; there are extraction methods for blood, tissue, hair and feathers, from which small amounts of DNA can be extracted; new sources of DNA extraction are developed through methods such as excretes, fossils and museum samples. The molecular markers are already an important tool within management of wild fauna, and there are many alternatives for their use in this field.