Captive breeding of commercially important species can reduce the pressure on wild populations caused by overcollection, but if not properly monitored, wildlife laundering can lead to further population declines. Stable isotope analysis has grown in importance as a forensic tool to detect wildlife laundering, but improvements are needed to improve its efficiency and reliability. Here, analysis of δ13C in eggshells of captive bred and wild sourced island apple snails (Pomacea maculata) distinguished between the two. Thus, routine isotope sampling of eggshell material from purported captive breeding facilities could be used to identify discrepancies that would warrant further scrutiny. In addition, I investigated between-tissue δ13C comparisons to differentiate between captive bred and wild sourced individuals. Snail shell and foot muscle δ13C values were significantly correlated in captive bred snails but not in wild caught snails, a result of captive bred snails reaching an equilibrium with their relatively uniform diets.
Between-tissue relationships therefore can detect wildlife laundering when animals are sampled in bulk. I also tested whether using hydroponically grown plants reduces isotope variability in animal diets - and thereby the tissues of the captive animals fed them - which would increase the sensitivity of stable isotope analysis as a forensic tool. Kale grown hydroponically was significantly less variable in δ13C values than kale grown traditionally in soil, which led to significantly less variable shell and foot δ13C values in snails fed that kale. Use of hydroponically grown plants reduces tissue isotope variation in captive bred animals and improves the reliability of stable isotope analysis. Combined, these experiments strengthen the viability of stable isotope analysis as a low-cost forensic tool capable of detecting signs of wildlife laundering.
Outline of Studies:
Major: Conservation Biology
Educational Career:
M.S. in Biology, Long Island University, 2019
B.S. in Biology, Long Island University, 2011
Committee in Charge:
Dr. John Fauth (Chair)
Dr. Graham Worthy
Dr. Ross Hinkle
Dr. Kent Hatch (External Committee Member)
Zoom Meeting ID: 912 7752 2655 Passcode: 150017
Approved for distribution by Dr. John Fauth, Committee Chair, on March 22, 2023.
The public is welcome to attend.
Read More