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Polymorphic microsatellite markers for the striped skunk, Mephitis mephitis, and other mephitids
Jerry W Dragoo1, Kathryn E Coan, Kristin A Moore
1Department of Biology, University of New Mexico, Albuquerque, 87131 NM, USA School of Medicine, University of New Mexico, Albuquerque, 87131 NM, USA Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of New Mexico, Albuquerque, 87131 NM, USA Caesar Kleberg Wildlife Research Institute, Texas A & M University - Kingsville, Kingsville, TX 78363, USA Genetics Program, Smithsonian Institution, Washington, DC 20008, USA Division of Biology, Kansas State University, Manhattan, KS 66506, USA.
Researchers developed 10 new microsatellite primers for striped skunks (Mephitis mephitis). These genetic markers will aid in studying skunk population dynamics and social behaviors, particularly in areas with endemic rabies.
Area of Science:
- Genetics
- Wildlife Biology
- Conservation
Background:
- Striped skunks (Mephitis mephitis) are widespread mesocarnivores in North America.
- Understanding skunk population dynamics is crucial, especially in regions where rabies is endemic.
- Genetic tools are needed to assess population structure and relatedness in skunks.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop and characterize polymorphic microsatellite loci for striped skunks.
- To provide genetic markers for population studies and conservation efforts.
- To assess the utility of these markers for relatedness studies in female skunks.
Main Methods:
- Development of 10 polymorphic microsatellite loci primers.
- Analysis of allele numbers and observed heterozygosity for each locus.
- Testing primer cross-amplification across species within the Mephitidae family.
Main Results:
- 10 polymorphic microsatellite loci primers were successfully developed for Mephitis mephitis.
- Allele numbers per locus ranged from 7 to 14, with observed heterozygosity from 0.76 to 1.0.
- Most primers showed cross-amplification potential within the Mephitidae family.
Conclusions:
- The developed microsatellite primers are valuable genetic tools for striped skunk research.
- These markers will facilitate studies on population dynamics, genetic relatedness, and disease ecology (e.g., rabies).
- The cross-species amplification suggests broader applications within the Mephitidae family.
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