Poster Sessions - 2018 Research Day

Exploration of Environmental DNA in Cat Conservation

Type of Presentation

Poster Session

Location

Hall of Governors

Start Date

4-6-2018 12:30 PM

End Date

4-6-2018 2:00 PM

Abstract

Environmental DNA has been shown to be a useful tool in studying populations. Many studies have demonstrated its ability to reveal the presence of an organism in an environment. While there are many studies that utilize eDNA to monitor aquatic species, there are few studies that use eDNA to study feline species. To explore the viability of using eDNA to monitor felids, we allowed domestic cats (Felis catus) to drink from water bowls of different sizes. After each cat drank from each bowl, eDNA samples were taken using filtered syringes over the course of a week. A qPCR analysis was performed to determine presence and quantity of cat DNA recovered from each sample. Results suggest that even a short interaction with water provides enough DNA for cat population studies.

Identify Grant

Undergraduate Research Grant

Faculty / Staff Sponsor

Dr. Erin Grey

This document is currently not available here.

Share

COinS
 
Apr 6th, 12:30 PM Apr 6th, 2:00 PM

Exploration of Environmental DNA in Cat Conservation

Hall of Governors

Environmental DNA has been shown to be a useful tool in studying populations. Many studies have demonstrated its ability to reveal the presence of an organism in an environment. While there are many studies that utilize eDNA to monitor aquatic species, there are few studies that use eDNA to study feline species. To explore the viability of using eDNA to monitor felids, we allowed domestic cats (Felis catus) to drink from water bowls of different sizes. After each cat drank from each bowl, eDNA samples were taken using filtered syringes over the course of a week. A qPCR analysis was performed to determine presence and quantity of cat DNA recovered from each sample. Results suggest that even a short interaction with water provides enough DNA for cat population studies.