The analysis of simple repeat loci as applied in evolutionary and behavioral sciences

This chapter describes several aspects of tandemly organized, simple repetitive DNA sequences and their usefulness for genetic relationship analyses. After introducing the structure, the evolution and the biological meaning of such target sequences in a particularly well-studied gene, we discuss oligonucleotide probes for generating individual specific multilocus banding patterns. Thus, oligonucleotide fingerprinting allows to approach novel problems in behavioral sciences. Here, we use a passerine bird, the great tit (Parus major) as an example. Finally, genomic fingerprinting is compared to sensitive amplification methods requiring less DNA. Advantages and shortcomings of these techniques need to be evaluated in the context of the biological question(s) asked and, above all, the quality and quantity of the starting material.