Evaluating DNA Barcoding as a Molecular Approach to Wildlife Identification and Conservation in Madhav National Park, India
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Abstract
Wildlife conservation within protected areas requires precise species identification for biodiversity monitoring, ecological research, and law enforcement. In National Parks (NP), remains of animals are frequently discovered in degraded, dismantled, or processed forms due to natural predation, anthropogenic pressures, and illegal poaching. Such conditions severely limit traditional morphological identification. This study evaluates DNA barcoding as a molecular forensic and biodiversity monitoring approach in MNP, focusing on its ability to identify species using mitochondrial COI and 16S rRNA markers, from highly compromised samples, including decayed carcasses, bone fragments, and processed animal products. Results demonstrated that in phase I, the 3 endangered species of MNP Cuon alpinus, Panthera tigris and Manis crassicaudata were identified for the BOLD repository and in phase II, 3 vulnerable species Cervus unicolor, Tetracerus quadricornis, and Panthera pardus might be achieved for the potential of DNA barcoding to strengthen law enforcement, detect illegal wildlife trade, and enhance ecological understanding in MNP. Recommendations are provided for integrating this molecular tool into park management protocols.
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