A preliminary assessment on the variability of the mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) of the saltwater crocodile (Crocodylus Porosus) in Sabah

Sal Kerisha Kntayva (2010) A preliminary assessment on the variability of the mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) of the saltwater crocodile (Crocodylus Porosus) in Sabah. Universiti Malaysia Sabah. (Unpublished)

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Abstract

The saltwater crocodile (Crocodylus porosus) or also known as the estuarine crocodile is known to be the largest of all living crocodilians and reptiles. It is also the most broadly distributed crocodilian species, and is thus of special conservation and economic interest. However, The Saltwater Crocodile is claSSified in the Red List in the IUCN as an endangered species in certain parts of the world. Thus, for the purposes of protecting, conserving, and managing these endangered species, studies on the breeding nature of these animals are essential. Consistent with this, the aim of this study is to understand the breeding nature of this animal through genetic parameters throughout certain regions in Sabah. To achieve this objective, mtDNA tests were carried out on skin tissue samples collected from 20 individuals of juvenile Saltwater crocodiles from Kinabatangan River, Klias River, Paitan River, and Serudong River. However, the complete procedures involved in the mtDNA laboratory experiments were unable to be carried out to acomplish the objectives of this study due to the unidentified specific combination and volumes of the mastermix that is required. In addition to performing the standard PCR protocol, 18 other protocols each with different mastermix combination and volumes were performed, but no clear image of DNA bands were obtained in all tests. This study suggests that, other than continuing with more PCR protocols, selecting optimal protocols from other published works is essential. In addition, factors such as preservation of the samples need to be properly carried out in the initial stages besides avoiding any form of contamination causing amplification of spurious DNA products.

Item Type: Academic Exercise
Keyword: saltwater crocodile, breeding nature, mtDNA tests
Subjects: Q Science > QH Natural history > QH301-705.5 Biology (General)
Department: SCHOOL > School of Science and Technology
Depositing User: ADMIN ADMIN
Date Deposited: 03 Aug 2016 14:15
Last Modified: 20 Nov 2017 11:42
URI: https://eprints.ums.edu.my/id/eprint/13668

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