Rapid identification of capybara (Hydrochaeris hydrochaeris) using allele-specific PCR

The capybara is the largest rodent in the world and is widely distributed throughout Central and South America (Paula et al., 1999). It is an animal of economic interest due to the pleasant flavor of its meat and higher protein content in comparison to beef and pork meat. The hide, hair and fat also have economic advantages. Thus, as an animal with such high economic potential, it is the target of hunters, even though hunting capybara is prohibited by law in Brazil (Fauna Law, number 9.605/98). Due to their similarities, capybara meat is easily confused with pork. This occurs due to the apprehension of the meat from hunters, as well as in some restaurants that serve capybara meat that was slaughtered illegally. In both cases, when the meat is confiscated, those re sponsible for the crimes claim it is pork, hindering the enforcement of the law. Therefore, an effective method of identifying this meat is important both in terms of combating the predatory hunting of capybara and protecting the rights of consumers to know the origin of what they are consuming. The objective of the present work was to identify capybara meat using allele-specific primers through PCR (Polymerase Chain Reaction) and discriminate it in relation to other types of meat, especially pork. To carry out the present work, oligonucleotides were constructed using the gene sequence alignments of Transthyretin (TTH1), Growth Hormone Receptor (GHR)