Forensic DNA analysis for animal protection and biodiversity conservation: A review

The use of DNA analysis in forensic investigations into animal persecution and biodiversity conservation is now commonplace and crimes such as illegal collection/smuggling, poaching, and illegal trade of protected species are increasingly being investigated using DNA based evidence in many countries. Using DNA analysis, it is possible to identify the species and geographical origin (i.e. population) of a forensic sample, and to also individualise the sample with high levels of probability. Despite extensive literature in animal species, there is unfortunately a serious lack of information on plant species, with only a handful of recent studies. In this review, I detail the applications and diverse forensic investigations that have been carried out to date whilst also highlighting recent developmental studies which offer forensic potential for many species in the future.