Data from: Genetic sampling for estimating density of common species

We optimized a protocol for single-session NGS sampling of hares. We compared spatial capture–recapture population estimates from live trapping to estimates derived from NGS, and assessed NGS costs. NGS provided population estimates similar to those derived from live trapping, but a higher density of sampling plots was required for NGS.

The optimal NGS protocol for our study entailed deploying 160 sampling plots for 4 days and genotyping one pellet per plot. NGS laboratory costs ranged from approximately $670 to $3000 USD per field site. While live trapping does not incur laboratory costs, its field costs can be considerably higher than for NGS, especially when study sites are difficult to access.

We conclude that NGS can work for common species, but that it will require field and laboratory pilot testing to develop cost-effective sampling protocols.

Usage notes

Cheng et al 2017_Ecol Evol_DRYAD Microsatellite genotypes (8 loci) for 114 snowshoe hares, representing all unique genotypes confirmed from hare tissue or fecal pellet samples collected at 5 study sites.