PCR-based method for sex identification of Eastern sarus crane (Grus antigone sharpii): implications for reintroduction programs in Thailand.

Due to human activity and a reduction in the size and quality of wetland habitats, populations of the Eastern sarus crane (Grus antigone sharpii) have declined dramatically across their range in Southeast Asia. Conservation efforts in Thailand have focused on reintroduction of the founders harboring the highest genetic diversity. One of the most important requirements to ensure the persistence of the reintroduced populations is a balanced sex ratio. In this study we tested three simple PCR-based methods which may be used for reliable sex identification in G. a. sharpii. The first method employs two combined primer sets based on a 0.6 kb EcoRI fragment (EE0.6). The second method is based on the intronic length polymorphism of the chromo-helicase DNA binding protein (CHD). The last technique relies on PCR-RFLP technique. The sex of six known and 24 unknown cranes were successfully identified by all three methods. These PCR-based sex identification methods are also useful for captive breeding management of G. a. sharpii.