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Forensics on wild animals: differentiation between otter and pheasant blood using electrophoretic methods
I Miller1, A C Gutleb, A Kranz
1Institut für Medizinische Chemie, Veterinärmedizinische Universität Wien, Austria.
Electrophoresis
|May 1, 1995
Summary
Electrophoresis identified illegal otter hunting by analyzing blood stains. This forensic technique differentiated species based on protein differences, proving valuable for wildlife crime investigations.
Area of Science:
- Forensic science
- Wildlife biology
- Biochemistry
Background:
- Illegal hunting of protected species poses a significant conservation challenge.
- Accurate species identification from biological samples is crucial for wildlife law enforcement.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine if electrophoretic techniques can identify the species origin of dried blood stains.
- To assess the utility of electrophoresis in forensic investigations of illegal hunting.
Main Methods:
- One-dimensional electrophoresis was used to separate and compare albumins and hemoglobins.
- Two-dimensional electrophoresis was employed to reveal differences in minor proteins.
- Dried blood stains were analyzed to identify species-specific protein profiles.
Main Results:
- Electrophoretic analysis clearly identified blood stains as originating from an otter (Lutra lutra).
- Distinct differences in electrophoretic mobilities of albumins and hemoglobins distinguished otter from pheasant (Phasianus colchicus).
- Two-dimensional electrophoresis revealed additional species-specific protein variations.
Conclusions:
- Electrophoretic techniques are effective for identifying the species of origin from small, dried blood samples.
- This method provides a valuable forensic tool for detecting and prosecuting illegal hunting of protected species.
- Protein analysis via electrophoresis aids in differentiating closely related species for legal and conservation purposes.