Analyzing and comparing the genetic make-up of plants and animals can yield information that is otherwise inaccessible. Environment Canada is working closely with university labs and other partners to apply genetic techniques to wildlife conservation-in such areas as population monitoring and conservation, studies of the impact of toxic contaminants, and the investigation and prosecution of wildlife crimes.
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Part of DNA strand |
Deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) is the principal constituent of genes, and is found in the cells of living organisms-including components of blood, skin, hair, nails, feathers and eggshells. DNA molecules are made up of a linear sequence of compounds called nucleotides, and form a long, continuous strand inside a structure called a chromosome. The unique sequence of the nucleotides in a chromosome determines the hereditary characteristics of an individual-from its species and sex, to traits such as eye colour. Each gene occupies a particular location on the DNA strand, making it possible to compare the same gene in a number of different samples.
In population monitoring and conservation, genetic techniques are used to link individuals found in separate areas, determine migration patterns, establish the geographic bounds of populations, estimate gene flow among populations, profile the genetic diversity and sexual make-up of populations, and manage captive breeding programs and translocation and reintroduction efforts. They are equally useful in discerning species and subspecies with similar external characteristics.
Genetic techniques are also used to test for genetic damage or the altered regulation of genes caused by contaminants such as pesticides-effects that might otherwise be invisible. Wildlife enforcement officials use genetic markers to identify species from forensic material, link individuals to a geographic area, and determine parentage and sex.
Although most of Environment Canada's genetic projects are still at the pilot stage, the Department's Canadian Wildlife Service recently conducted a review of current and potential applications that notes many instances in which such techniques would greatly improve wildlife management efforts. The review also recommends pursuing partnerships to build up the baseline genetic data that wildlife enforcement officers need to identify and prosecute people involved in the illegal hunting or trade of species at risk.
For a full feature on "Genetic Techniques and Wildlife Management", see the March-April 2001 issue of Science & the Environment Bulletin.
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