Comparison of conservative DNA extraction methods for two Galliformes: grey partridge (Perdix perdix italica, Hartert 1917) and red-legged partridge (Alectoris rufa, Linnaeus 1758)

Abstract

Grey partridge and Red-legged partridge are Galliformes needing special conservation strategies. Reintroduction may represent conservation solutions solely with the support of an in-depth genetic and ecologic evaluation, particularly of grey partridge, of which an Italian subspecies was described. Protocols for conservative DNA isolation are fundamental to study breeders and wild samples. For these reasons, two DNA extraction protocols on different kinds of feathers (P1–P6), oral and anal swabs were tested. DNA suitability was assayed through PCR amplification and capillary sequencing of both 408 bp of Control Region and 658 bp of COI. Both protocols yielded well-amplifiable DNA, they were not time and money consuming and did not require harmful reagents. Sequences of DNA extracted through Wizard Genomic DNA Purification Kit (WGDPK) were better than those based on polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP); buccal swab, P3 and P5 seemed the best sampling methods, in particular, P5-feather sampling did not affect the flying capacity.