A new minimally invasive and inexpensive sampling method for genetic studies in pinnipeds

Abstract

The choice of sampling method is essential in the development of a population genetic study. This choice influences the type of samples that can be obtained and, therefore, the quality of the extracted DNA. Sampling methods can be classified into invasive, non-invasive, and minimally invasive. This last category is preferred, as it minimizes handling, damage, and degree of disturbance to animals, while still providing enough DNA for genetic studies. Here, we describe a very low cost and easy to manufacture minimally invasive sampler, developed to obtain hair samples from pinnipeds. The sampler was highly effective both at reaching animals and collecting a good number of hairs. We compared the efficiency of hair samples obtained using our device, versus tissue samples collected from dead animals, by counting successful mtDNA amplifications and sequencing. Hair samples amplified more efficiently compared with tissue samples, but sequencing was equally efficient for both sample types. In conclusion, the sampler described is an excellent option to obtain DNA for genetic studies. This minimally invasive technique can also be used to sample hair for other studies, such as estimation of environmental contaminants, measurement of individual hormone levels, or diet determination through the analysis of stable isotopes, among other potential uses.