Elk

This DNA-based parentage test uses microsatellite marker analysis to compare the DNA profile of an offspring to the profiles of possible parents.

We provide a range of services based on fecal pellets from deer or other ruminants provided to us, including individual genotyping with 10-12 microsatellite markers and an SRY marker to determine sex as well as species-typing based on mitochondrial sequencing (i.e., only necessary when species or origin is ambiguous).  Analysis of genotypic data to produce abundance estimates also can be arranged.

Chronic wasting disease (CWD) is a fatal transmissible spongiform encephalopathy of elk and other cervids in North America. A natural mutation in the prion protein gene in elk has been found to affect susceptibility to CWD and disease progression.