Identification of tuna species by computer-assisted and cluster analysis of PCR–SSCP electrophoretic patterns

Four species of tuna fish (T. albacares, T. obesus, T. alalunga and E. pelamis) were subjected to PCR–SSCP and resulting electrophoretic patterns were analysed with a “computer assisted” method of gel analysis followed by cluster analysis. With this method the species were differentiated at intra-gel level. Inter-gel electrophoretic patterns variability was observed.