The traditional method of sex identification in beavers (Castor canadensis) by external palpation can be inaccurate. We tested 2 genetic methods for determining sex in beavers, the zinc-finger DNA marker and the Y chromosome–specific sex determining region (SRY) marker. The SRY marker identified sex correctly in 57 of 67 (85%) beavers, whereas the zinc-finger technique was successful less often in only 48 of 67 (72%) animals. Sex was correctly assigned by palpation for 21 of 27 beavers (78%). Beaver studies in which accurate sex identification is critical may benefit by verifying the sex of individuals using one or both of these molecular markers.
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1 November 2008
A Comparison of Field and Molecular Techniques for Sexing Beavers
Joanne C. Crawford,
Zhiwei Liu,
Thomas A. Nelson,
Clayton K. Nielsen,
Craig K. Bloomquist
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Journal of Wildlife Management
Vol. 72 • No. 8
November 2008
Vol. 72 • No. 8
November 2008
beaver
Castor canadensis
palpation
sex determination
sex determining region (SRY)
zinc-finger