DNA variability and parentage testing in captive Waldrapp ibises

The Waldrapp ibis (Geronticus eremita) is one of the most endangered birds in the wild. The only real hope for its survival seems to rest with captive propagation, which has fortunately proved straightforward. Preservation of genetic diversity for maintaining viable populations is a major goal in any species conservation programme. Therefore sensitive tools have to be developed for the detection and regular monitoring of population variability. Individual identity has to be verified and each individual's pedigree defined in order to enable effective selective breeding. In this study, extensive DNA fingerprinting technology was applied to a group of 39 captive Waldrapp ibises. Five minisatellite probes were used. Despite the fact that the colony was founded by only six birds and that some of the founders were apparently related, highly polymorphic banding patterns were obtained. The human- and pig-derived probes MS1, MS31, p lambda g3 and pCMS12 each detected multiple distinct loci suitable for individual identification and resolution of parentage. Probe MS51 was locus-specific and revealed six different alleles. In addition, MS31 and p lambda g3 co-detected a band present in all females but none of the males and thus could be used for sex determination. For all but four individuals both parents could be identified unambiguously. The exceptions were offspring derived from a full sib mating in which DNA results allowed no distinction between the parents and the grandparents. Comparison of the parentage assigned by DNA analysis and by observation of breeding behaviour, respectively, showed agreement in all but five instances. Here, DNA data uncovered interchange of individuals in the stud book. Application of these minisatellite probes therefore offers an extremely sensitive means for individual identification and verification and completion of pedigree records.