From Forests to Forensics:
The Applications of DNA Forensic in Wildlife Investigation
Wildlife DNA forensics applies genetic methods traditionally used in human forensic science to identify wildlife species and their products. Recent advances in molecular genetics have expanded the potential applications of these methods in wildlife research, conservation, and management, offering more precise identification at the molecular level. This surge in genetic research has piqued the interest of scientists from various disciplines to explore its uses in wildlife DNA forensics.
A key development in the field is the use of mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA), which has become a valuable tool for law enforcement in combating wildlife crimes such as poaching, illegal trade, and smuggling. For instance, mtDNA can assist in identifying specific species, even distinguishing between animals from different regions, such as Sabah, Sarawak, Sumatra, or Kalimantan, by detecting subtle differences in their genetic makeup.
Wildlife Genetic Resource Banks store DNA “fingerprints” from various species and subspecies, creating a reference database that law enforcement agencies can use. This resource enables investigators to match DNA found on confiscated tools or products to the genetic profiles in their database, helping them determine which protected species have been illegally hunted or traded.
These innovations offer significant potential in tracking the illegal wildlife trade and protecting endangered species by enabling rapid, accurate identification and aiding enforcement agencies in their efforts to curb wildlife-related crimes.
