Extraction of DNA from micro-tissue for bat species identification

Abstract

Bat populations are declining worldwide. Accurate identification is essential to promote species' conservation. However, minimal morphological differences and a high rate of cryptic species make identification difficult, unless voucher specimens are kept, a controversial issue today. The objective of this work was to standardize a method of extracting non-lethal DNA using bats' uropatagium micro-tissue, aiming the molecular identification of species that occur in the region of Maring a PR. The method standardized was efficient, and does not cause serious damage to bats. For future field studies, collection of microtissue and morphometry of the specimens will be sufficient for accurate identification.