Non-invasive Sampling Techniques Applied to Conservation Genetic Studies in Mammals

Abstract

Non-invasive samples have been used in Conservation Genetics and Molecular Ecology studies since the 1990s. The continuous advances in DNA extraction, amplification, and data analysis techniques have made them the perfect choice for the study of endangered populations and species. In the first part of this chapter, we carry out a historical review of sampling techniques used for genetic studies. Then, we analyze what type of samples, molecular markers, and sampling techniques are the most used for the genetic study of Neotropical mammals from samples obtained by non-invasive methods. Later, we review what are the advantages and limitations of the use of this type of samples as well as the possible solutions to the main problems associated with their use, and finally, we assess the future challenges of using non-invasive sampling. Our review also includes several case studies in which different sources of DNA and several molecular markers are used to address genetic studies in Neotropical mammals.