Molecular based Wildlife Forensics: Genetics and Bioinformatics

The baseline genetic database generated through the Nepal Tiger Genome Project (NTGP) has built an effective tool in the fight against wildlife crime in Nepal and beyond. Seized wildlife parts have been processed at CMDN’s laboratory to identify species, sex and region of origin. CMDN now has the necessary laboratory and bioinformatics tools to implement effective molecular based wildlife forensics in Nepal. CMDN has been helping government agencies in this regard.

The DNA forensic technology is becoming increasingly vital in wildlife crime investigations. This capacity in Nepal, has shown the immense potential to predict the ‘Hotspots’ of poaching activities and support the concerned regional and national authorities, policy makers and stakeholders to devise effective preemptive and preventive strategies in the fight against wildlife crime.