Optimisation and application of a forensic microsatellite panel to combat Greater-one horned rhinoceros (Rhinoceros unicornis) poaching in India. (May 2021)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Ghosh, Tista; Sharma, Amit; Mondol, Samrat
• Is Part Of: Forensic science international. Volume 52(2021)
• Publication Date: 2021-05
• Subjects: Rhinoceros unicornis -- Forensic marker panel -- ISFG -- Heterozygote instability -- Wildlife trade -- Crime case; Forensic genetics -- Periodicals; Génétique légale -- Périodiques; Forensic genetics; Electronic journals; Periodicals; 614.1
• DOI: 10.1016/j.fsigen.2021.102472
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1872-4973

Abstract

Highlights: First forensic DNA profiling system for Indian Greater one-horned rhinoceros. The 14 marker panel was standardised following ISFG guidelines. Markers were tested for peak characteristics, allele calling inconsistencies, and polymorphism. Panel was used to provide scientific evidence for 15 alleged rhino poaching cases in India. Abstract: The Greater one-horned (GoH) rhinoceros is one of the most charismatic endemic megaherbivores of the Indian subcontinent. Threatened by poaching, habitat loss and disease, the species is found only in small areas of its historical distribution. Increasing demands for rhino horns in chinese traditional medicine has put the existing population under continuing threat, and large profits and low conviction rates make poaching difficult to contain. DNA forensics such as the RhoDIS-Africa program has helped in combating illegal rhino horn trade, but the approach is yet to be optimised for Indian GoH rhinoceros. Here we followed the International Society for Forensic Genetics (ISFG) guidelines to establish a 14 dinucleotide microsatellite panel for Indian GoH rhinoceros DNA profiling. Selected from a large initial pool (n = 34), the microsatellite markers showed high polymorphism, stable peak characteristics, consistent allele calls and produced precise, reproducible genotypes from different types of rhino samples. The panel also showed low genotyping error and produced high statistical power during individual identification (PIDsibs value of 1.2*10 −4 ). As part of the official RhoDIS-India program, we used this panel to match poached rhino carcass with seized contraband as scientific evidence in court procedure. This program now moves to generate detailed allele-frequency maps of all GoH rhinoceros populations in India and Nepal for development of a genetic database and identification of poaching hotspots and trade routes across the subcontinent and beyond.