Question

Why is DNA profiling valuable for the study of whopping cranes?

Answer 1

Whooping cranes (Grus americana) are considered as endangered species and these are conserved by captive breeding. The genetic variability and paternity of selected captive flock of these birds is determined by DNA profiling. The DNA profiling of these birds reveal numerous heterozygous minisatellite loci. These minisatellite loci help to determine the genetic variability of these endangered bird species. The DNA profiling is done by digesting genomic DNAs of birds with HaeIII restriction enzyme followed by electrophoresis, blotting technique, and hybridization to the M13 minisatellite probe. The genetic variability of these bird species is being reduced due to population bottleneck. The polymorphisms of DNA profiling enable to determine the paternity of captive flock but the relationship of maternal - offspring was known though the sire was unknown. Still, the DNA profiling is considered as important tool for assessment of future genetic variability of endangered species in captive breeding programs.