The Sources and Uses of Genetic Material in The Study of Petrogale (Rock-wallabies) and Other Mammals.

Abstract

The application of molecular genetic techniques has the potential to greatly increase our knowledge of rock-wallaby (Petrogale) natural history, ecology, behaviour, evolution and conservation. Although several have recommended the use of molecular techniques on Petrogale (Kennedy 1992; Hall and Kinnear 1992; Maxwell, Burbidge and Morris 1996), relatively few studies have been published (e.g., Sharman, Close and Maynes 1990; Bee and Close 1992; Spencer, Odorico, Jones, Marsh, and Miller 1995; Pope, Sharp and Moritz 1996; Eldridge 1997; Eldridge and Close 1997). However many more studies are currently in progress. As the molecular genetic study of Petrogale is still in its infancy most of the examples used in this review concern investigations of other marsupials and eutherians. This however has the advantage of illustrating the universality of these techniques and will also make this review of interest to those working with other mammals.