Genetic non-invasive sampling (gNIS) as a cost-effective tool for monitoring elusive small mammals

ABSTRACT: Genetic non-invasive sampling (gNIS) may provide valuable information for population monitoring, as it allows inferences of population density and key behavioural traits such as dispersal, kinship and reproduction. Despite its enormous potential, gNIS has rarely been applied to small mammals, for which live-trapping is still the most commonly used sampling method. Here we evaluated the applicability and cost-effectiveness of gNIS comparedwith live-trapping, to monitor ametapopulation of an Iberian endemic and elusive rodent: the Cabrera vole (Microtus cabrerae). We compared the genetic diversity, kinship and dispersal movements inferred using both methods. For that, we optimised microsatellite markers for individual identification of M. cabrerae, using both tissue (n = 31) and faecal sampl

ORGANISM(S): Microtus cabrerae

SUBMITTER: Joana Paupério 

PROVIDER: S-BSST341 | biostudies-other |

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-other