Genetic identification of red deer using autosomal STR markers

Abstract The primary application of STR markers is going to be a tool of high fidelity in forensic genetics, for instance identifying the cognate animal from traces. The microsatellite marker set also helps in the protection of red deer stocks from poaching in Hungary. Moreover, increasing interests of red deer farms have appeared to develop DNA based diagnostics for pedigree analysis. In addition, these loci will be useful in population genetic studies in order to assess the genetic diversity in the Hungarian population of red deer ( Cervus elaphus hippelaphus ). To achieve this goal a parentage control kit is being developed in Hungary in cooperation with academic and governmental institutes.