Open AccessA novel method of caenophidian snake sex identification using molecular markers based on two gametologous genes
Author(s) -
Laopichienpong Nararat,
Tawichasri Panupong,
Chanhome Lawan,
Phatcharakullawarawat Rattanin,
Singchat Worapong,
Kantachumpoo Attachai,
Muangmai Narongrit,
Suntrarachun Sunutcha,
Matsubara Kazumi,
Peyachoknagul Surin,
Srikulnath Kornsorn
Publication year - 2017
Publication title -
ecology and evolution
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 1.17
H-Index - 63
ISSN - 2045-7758
DOI - 10.1002/ece3.3057
Subject(s) - sexing , biology , primer (cosmetics) , genetics , identification (biology) , gene , candidate gene , genetic marker , molecular marker , computational biology , polymerase chain reaction , agarose gel electrophoresis , evolutionary biology , ecology , chemistry , organic chemistry
Sex identification provides important information for ecological and evolutionary studies, as well as benefiting snake conservation management. Traditional methods such as cloacal probing or cloacal popping are counterproductive for sex identification concerning very small species, resulting in difficulties in the management of their breeding programs. In this study, the nucleotide sequences of gametologous genes ( CTNNB 1 and WAC genes) were used for the development of molecular sexing markers in caenophidian snakes. Two candidate markers were developed with the two primer sets, and successfully amplified by a single band on the agarose gel in male ( ZZ ) and two bands, differing in fragment sizes, in female ( ZW ) of 16 caenophidian snakes for CTNNB 1 and 12 caenophidian snakes for WAC . Another candidate marker was developed with the primer set to amplify the specific sequence for CTNNB 1 W homolog, and the PCR products were successfully obtained in a female‐specific 250‐bp DNA bands. The three candidate PCR sexing markers provide a simple sex identification method based on the amplification of gametologous genes, and they can be used to facilitate effective caenophidian snake conservation and management programs.