Non-destructive Sampling Technique Research Articles

Mealybug Population Dynamics: A Comparative Analysis of Sampling Methods for Saccharicoccus sacchari and Heliococcus summervillei in Sugarcane (Saccharum sp. Hybrids).

This research is focused on a comparative field-based study of the population dynamics and sampling methods of two mealybug species, Saccharicoccus sacchari (Cockerell, 1895) (Hemiptera: Coccomorpha, Pseudococcidae) and Heliococcus summervillei (Brookes, 1978) (Hemiptera: Coccomorpha, Pseudococcidae), in sugarcane (Saccharum sp. hybrids) (f. Poaceae) over consecutive growing seasons. The research monitored and compared the above- and belowground populations and seasonal abundance of these two mealybug species in sugarcane fields in Far North Queensland, with non-destructive sampling techniques of yellow sticky traps, pan traps, and stem traps, and destructive sampling of the whole leaf and whole plant. The results indicated that S. sacchari (n = 29,137) was more abundant and detected throughout the growing season, with population peaks in the mid-season, while H. summervillei (n = 2706) showed peaks of the early-season activity. S. sacchari is primarily located on sugarcane stems and roots, compared to H. summervillei, which is located on leaves and roots. The whole-leaf collection and stem trap were the most effective sampling techniques for quantification of H. summervillei and S. sacchari, respectively. This study enhanced the understanding of S. sacchari and the first-ever record of H. summervillei on sugarcane in Australia and will contribute to the development of more effective pest management strategies.

Cost-effort analysis of Baited Remote Underwater Video (BRUV) and environmental DNA (eDNA) in monitoring marine ecological communities.

Monitoring the diversity and distribution of species in an ecosystem is essential to assess the success of restoration strategies. Implementing biomonitoring methods, which provide a comprehensive assessment of species diversity and mitigate biases in data collection, holds significant importance in biodiversity research. Additionally, ensuring that these methods are cost-efficient and require minimal effort is crucial for effective environmental monitoring. In this study we compare the efficiency of species detection, the cost and the effort of two non-destructive sampling techniques: Baited Remote Underwater Video (BRUV) and environmental DNA (eDNA) metabarcoding to survey marine vertebrate species. Comparisons were conducted along the Sussex coast upon the introduction of the Nearshore Trawling Byelaw. This Byelaw aims to boost the recovery of the dense kelp beds and the associated biodiversity that existed in the 1980s. We show that overall BRUV surveys are more affordable than eDNA, however, eDNA detects almost three times as many species as BRUV. eDNA and BRUV surveys are comparable in terms of effort required for each method, unless eDNA analysis is carried out externally, in which case eDNA requires less effort for the lead researchers. Furthermore, we show that increased eDNA replication yields more informative results on community structure. We found that using both methods in conjunction provides a more complete view of biodiversity, with BRUV data supplementing eDNA monitoring by recording species missed by eDNA and by providing additional environmental and life history metrics. The results from this study will serve as a baseline of the marine vertebrate community in Sussex Bay allowing future biodiversity monitoring research projects to understand community structure as the ecosystem recovers following the removal of trawling fishing pressure. Although this study was regional, the findings presented herein have relevance to marine biodiversity and conservation monitoring programs around the globe.

Structural characterization, thermal and morphological analysis of materialsat ecological park the Poma-Colombia

This place hosts rock shelters with cave paintings. The materials studied include: clays, substrates, and pigments in cave paintings. These materials were analyzed using various experimental techniques suitable for structure determination, thermal and morphological analysis. X-ray fluorescence energy dispersive (XRFED) was used to determine the basic composition. This is a versatile, fast, and non-destructive sampling technique used in the archaeological field because it uses a small sample and is not invasive. X-ray diffraction (XRD) is used to identify the clays and demonstrate the present phases. Differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) and thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) were used to observe the thermal behavior. These two techniques allow determining any event associated with a change in the thermal properties of a material with respect to temperature or time. Finally, in the morphological analysis, the study of grain size to the clay fraction was performed by scanning electron microscope (SEM).

Feeding ecology based on stable carbon and nitrogen isotopes: A comparative study on different Guiana dolphin tissues

Different tissues are used for stable isotope analysis in cetacean investigations. However, variation in the isotopic composition of tissues with different turnover rates has been reported for cetaceans. To better understand stable carbon and nitrogen isotopes (δ13C and δ15N) in skin compared to other tissues, this study assessed the isotopic variation among the liver, muscle, and skin of Guiana dolphins (Sotalia guianensis), as well as the influence of sex on these variations. No differences were found in δ13C among male tissues, but females showed lower values in the liver compared to muscle and skin. Differences in δ15N were observed among all tissues, with different variation patterns for males and females. Four females were distinguished from males and other females by their 13C depletion in all tissues and δ15N variation pattern. We conclude that skin and muscle may be equivalent in δ13C values for Guiana dolphins. The multiple-tissue analysis brings new insights into their feeding ecology and provides background for stable isotope analysis using non-destructive sampling techniques in small cetaceans.

A Comparison of Non-Destructive Visceral Swab and Tissue Biopsy Sampling Methods for Genotyping-by-Sequencing in the Freshwater Mussel Fusconaia askewi.

Limiting harm to organisms caused by genetic sampling is an important consideration for rare species, and a number of non-destructive sampling techniques have been developed to address this issue in freshwater mussels. Two methods, visceral swabbing and tissue biopsies, have proven to be effective for DNA sampling, though it is unclear as to which method is preferable for genotyping-by-sequencing (GBS). Tissue biopsies may cause undue stress and damage to organisms, while visceral swabbing potentially reduces the chance of such harm. Our study compared the efficacy of these two DNA sampling methods for generating GBS data for the unionid freshwater mussel, the Texas pigtoe (Fusconaia askewi). Our results find both methods generate quality sequence data, though some considerations are in order. Tissue biopsies produced significantly higher DNA concentrations and larger numbers of reads when compared with swabs, though there was no significant association between starting DNA concentration and number of reads generated. Swabbing produced greater sequence depth (more reads per sequence), while tissue biopsies revealed greater coverage across the genome (at lower sequence depth). Patterns of genomic variation as characterized in principal component analyses were similar regardless of the sampling method, suggesting that the less invasive swabbing is a viable option for producing quality GBS data in these organisms.

Using non-destructive sampling to evaluate the population genomic status of captive Brown Eared Pheasants

Evaluating the genetic status of threatened species is an essential task in conservation genetics. However, the genetic status of threatened species has been mostly evaluated through techniques that fail to estimate genetic diversity at the whole genomic level. Next generation sequencing can meet this demand, but high quality samples such as blood or muscle tissues are required. However, it is difficult to collect such samples from threatened species because sampling work may impact their health. Therefore, it is essential to design a workflow to evaluate the whole genomic status of threatened species using non-destructive sampling. Even though non-destructive sampling has been used in traditional barcoding technique, the barcoding technique cannot evaluate the whole genomic status. Brown Eared Pheasant (Crossoptilon mantchuricum) is an endangered species, with captive populations maintained in Taiyuan Zoo, China, and Europe. However, the genetic diversity, inbreeding pattern, and mutation load of these two populations are unclear. To uncover the genetic status of these two captive populations, we applied 2b-RAD technology to evaluate the genomic status of these populations using feathers as samples. The feathers could be collected by non-destructive sampling. The results indicate that the Taiyuan Zoo population has a lower genetic diversity and higher inbreeding coefficient than the European population. The Taiyuan Zoo population has lethal mutations when homozygous. The current project uses a non-destructive sampling technique to evaluate the whole genomic status of the two captive populations, providing a paradigm for conservation genetics, which will facilitate the development of conservation biology.

An examination of mercury concentrations in eggshells of the common snapping turtle (Chelydra serpentina) in Nova Scotia, Canada

Mercury (Hg) is a potentially toxic metal that has bioaccumulating and biomagnifying properties. In egg laying animals, it can be transferred from an adult female to offspring. However, in turtles, the inter-and-intra-nest variation of Hg concentrations remains unknown. We investigated the concentration of Hg in preyed-upon Common Snapping Turtles (Chelydra serpentina) eggshells. The variability in Hg contamination between and within each nest was assessed. In June 2021, 368 eggshells left behind by predators were sampled from 14 nests, from three different sites in southwest Nova Scotia. Ten eggshells were randomly selected from each nest for analysis. We found no correlation between estimated number of eggs in a nest and average nest Hg concentration. Significant inter-nest variation (Hg ranging from 12.0 ± 3.85 to 172.3 ± 43.9 µg/kg) and intra-nest variability may indicate maternal transfer. The collection of the shells of freshly preyed- upon eggs is a useful non-destructive sampling technique to maintain sustainable turtle populations. Our results demonstrate the need for further investigation into the impact of Hg on temperate, freshwater turtle reproduction. Keywords: mercury concentration, maternal transfer, common snapping turtle, eggshells

Evaluating nondestructive forage sampling techniques in alfalfa–bermudagrass mixtures in the southeastern United States

AbstractThe increased use of legume–grass mixtures in grazing systems has resulted in the need for more accurate forage estimation techniques for these diverse mixtures. In mixed stands, variations in species composition and canopy density make the estimation of herbage mass (HM) challenging. Three nondestructive sampling techniques [a rising plate meter (RPM), a pasture ruler, and digital image analysis] were compared with traditional botanical hand separation to determine their effectiveness in predicting HM in bermudagrass [Cynodon dactylon (L.) Pers.] and alfalfa (Medicago sativa L.) pastures when harvested to a 1‐ or 4‐inch stubble height. All models calibrated to forages harvested to 1 inch failed to meet the formal assumptions of the F‐test. The height and RPM were moderately successful at predicting HM when calibrated to samples harvested to 4 inches. However, the models were unable to predict HM above 4,000 lb acre−1 in their current form. Future research in alfalfa–bermudagrass mixtures should focus on isolating how HM changes within the canopy and increase the sample area used to collect the calibration data.

The carbon dioxide (CO2) sequestration potential of conservation plant Aquilaria malaccensis

Climate change is the challenge provided with the most attention within all circles in the 21st century. This phenomenon allegedly originates due to the increasing concentrations of CO2 gas in the atmosphere. Therefore, efforts are continually designed to slow down or halt the process to avoid significantly impacting life on earth. The common mitigation approach is by encouraging the planting of trees to optimize CO2 sequestration. This study, therefore, aimed to determine the CO2 sequestration capacity of Aquilaria malaccensis in natural forests and plantations. Particularly, Aquilaria malaccensis is an endemic plant of Indonesia’s tropical forests, with critical or endangered status. The allometric method was adopted, with purposive and non-destructive sampling techniques, then a multilevel plot was used during CO2 sequestration analysis. This plant species absorbed the gas at the tree category in natural forests (9.57 tons CO2 eq/year), and similarly with plantation forests (2.35 tons CO2 eq/year). The tree biomass category in natural forests (5.22 tons CO2 eq/year), and plantations (1.28 tons CO2 eq/year), alongside the pole category in natural forests (1.9 x 10-3 tons CO2 eq/year) rank lowest. The carbon content in the tree category ranked highest at the natural (2.61 tons CO2 eq/year), compared to plantation forests (0.64 tons CO2 eq/year), while the carbon composition in pole category at the natural and plantation forests were (9.8 x 10-4 tons CO2 eq/year) and (2.2 x 10-3 tons CO2 eq/year), respectively.

A non-destructive method to assess the status of Posidonia oceanica meadows

This paper presents a new non-destructive sampling technique that consists of cutting all of the leaves of a Posidonia oceanica shoot (with scissors) just above the ligula of the external leaves. Developed in an undisturbed meadow in Corsica (France) at depths of 12–15 m, this sampling technique is called the Non-Destructive Shoot sampling Method (NDSM). The results of using this method indicate that most biometric parameters and relevant water quality indices can be measured and calculated from seagrasses sampled using the NDSM. It was determined that sampling shoots using the NDSM ensured a 100% survival rate. Notably, the NDSM allowed sampled shoots to grow back to lengths similar to those of an adjacent control meadow within three months. Biochemical analyses indicated that meadow portions and seagrass leaves regrown after NDSM sampling differed little in chemical composition (C, N and P and essential metal micronutrients Fe, Cu, Zn, Mn, Ni and Mo) to control seagrasses. Thus, the NDSM limits the negative effects of the sampling. Although not lethal to the plant, sampling seagrasses according to the NDSM requires exemption from the competent authority according to local, regional or national regulations for each protected species.

Submerged Carbonate Banks Aggregate Pelagic Megafauna in Offshore Tropical Australia

The conservation of marine biodiversity is firmly embedded in national and international policy frameworks. However, the difficulties associated with conducting broad-scale surveys of oceanic environments restrict the evidence base available for applied management in pelagic waters. For example, the Oceanic Shoals Australian Marine Park (AMP) was established in 2012 in a part of Australia’s continental shelf where unique topographic features are thought to support significant levels of biodiversity, yet where our understanding of ecological processes remains limited. We deployed midwater baited remote underwater video systems (midwater BRUVs) in the Oceanic Shoals AMP to provide the first non-extractive baseline assessment of pelagic wildlife communities in the area. We used these observations and high-resolution multibeam swaths of the seafloor to explore potential relationships between prominent geomorphological features and the (i) composition, (ii) richness, and (iii) total abundance of pelagic communities. We documented 32 vertebrate species across three sampling areas, ranging from small baitfish to large sharks and rays, and estimated that up to twice as many taxa may occur within the region as a whole. This highlights the Oceanic Shoals AMP as a reservoir of biodiversity comparable to other documented offshore oceanic hotspots. Our results also confirm the AMP as a possible distant foraging destination for IUCN red listed sea turtles, and a potential breeding and/or nursing ground for a number of charismatic cetaceans. Model outputs indicate that both species richness and abundance increase in proximity to raised geomorphic structures such as submerged banks and pinnacles, highlighting the influence of submarine topography on megafauna distribution. By providing a foundational understanding of spatial patterns in pelagic wildlife communities throughout a little studied region, our work demonstrates how a combination of non-destructive sampling techniques and predictive models can provide new opportunities to support decision-making under data shortage.

Using Noninvasive Genetic Sampling to Survey Rare Butterfly Populations.

Advances in nondestructive genetic sampling techniques continue to offer new opportunities for studying organisms, particularly those of conservation concern where more traditional invasive sampling methods are often not available. As part of a proof-of-concept, we investigated the effectiveness of using the chorion from residual butterfly egg debris as a source of viable genetic material for analysis. Laboratory material from a captive breeding population of the federally endangered Miami blue butterfly (Cyclargus thomasi bethunebakeri) was used to test efficacy and refine the methodology. The resulting best practices were subsequently evaluated using field-collected material from extant north Florida populations of the at-risk frosted elfin butterfly (Callophyrs irus). Our results demonstrated that it is possible to extract DNA of sufficiently high quantity and quality for successful gene sequencing. We additionally describe a simple, low-cost, and reliable method of collecting and storing egg debris samples that can be consistently adopted for field or laboratory work as well as deployed with projects that have a larger geographic scope and/or involve citizen scientists. Potential limitations related to field sample collection are discussed as well as needs for future evaluation.

DIVERS-OPERATED UNDERWATER PHOTOGRAMMETRY: APPLICATIONS IN THE STUDY OF ANTARCTIC BENTHOS

Abstract. Ecological studies about marine benthic communities received a major leap from the application of a variety of non-destructive sampling and mapping techniques based on underwater image and video recording. The well-established scientific diving practice consists in the acquisition of single path or ‘round-trip’ over elongated transects, with the imaging device oriented in a nadir looking direction. As it may be expected, the application of automatic image processing procedures to data not specifically acquired for 3D modelling can be risky, especially if proper tools for assessing the quality of the produced results are not employed. This paper, born from an international cooperation, focuses on this topic, which is of great interest for ecological and monitoring benthic studies in Antarctica. Several video footages recorded from different scientific teams in different years are processed with an automatic photogrammetric procedure and salient statistical features are reported to critically analyse the derived results. As expected, the inclusion of oblique images from additional lateral strips may improve the expected accuracy in the object space, without altering too much the current video recording practices.

Comparing Nondestructive Sampling Techniques for Predicting Forage Mass in Alfalfa–Tall Wheatgrass Pasture

Core Ideas To compare five nondestructive sampling techniques for predicting forage mass. Procedures: pasture ruler, rising plate meter, ImageJ, PowerPoint photo point count, and normalized difference vegetation index. PowerPoint model was the best option if restricted to one sampling procedure. Combined (Height + ImageJ) model was the best option for predicting forage mass. These measurements require simple equipment, are adaptable, and can be automated. Producers rely on subjective visual assessments to estimate forage mass in their pastures, which often are inaccurate and lead to poor stocking decisions. The objective of this trial was to compare five nondestructive sampling techniques for predicting forage mass in three alfalfa–tall wheatgrass [Medicago sativa L.; Thinopyrum ponticum (Host) Beauv.] pastures in the southern High Plains. Procedures included canopy height measured with a pasture ruler and rising plate meter (RPM), percentage of green pixels from ImageJ analyses, percentage of green points from photo point count in PowerPoint, and normalized difference vegetation index (NDVI). Height and RPM were linearly regressed on measured forage mass while the remaining were linearly regressed on the natural log of measured forage mass. Considering their limitations, stepwise regression was used to find the best combination of digital and physical procedure (Height + ImageJ) that reduced model error. Calibration models were then applied to external data to determine predictive ability of each procedure. The PowerPoint model was the best, most precise option if restricted to a single sampling procedure, whereas the combined model possessed the superior combination of high R2 and low model error. The combined and PowerPoint models possessed the highest R2pred, but the combined model would be more applicable since it did not saturate when measured forage mass exceeded 1200 kg DM ha−1. The use of ImageJ with canopy height measurements for forage mass prediction requires simple equipment, lends itself to automation, and is adaptable to various forage systems.

A non-destructive DNA sampling technique for herbarium specimens.

Herbarium specimens are an important source of DNA for plant research but current sampling methods require the removal of material for DNA extraction. This is undesirable for irreplaceable specimens such as rare species or type material. Here I present the first non-destructive sampling method for extracting DNA from herbarium specimens. DNA was successfully retrieved from robust leaves and/or stems of herbarium specimens up to 73 years old.

Nondestructive Determination of Legume Content in Grass‐Legume Pastures

Core Ideas Procedures were more successful when forage species were distinct hues of green. Overall, predictive accuracy of PowerPoint model was best in Old World bluestem–legume pasture. Only the visual model showed potential in tall wheatgrass–alfalfa pasture. To better manage forage productivity and quality, it is important to accurately and objectively monitor legume content in grass‐legume pastures. Current nondestructive methods are too subjective or labor intensive. Recent research has led to developments in digital image analysis (DIA) and remote sensing techniques useful in pasture research and management. Four nondestructive sampling techniques were compared with traditional botanical hand separations to determine their ability to predict legume content in pastures of tall wheatgrass [Thinopyrum ponticum (Podp.); TW] and alfalfa (Medicago sativa L.): TW‐alfalfa; and in pastures of Old World bluestem [Bothriochloa bladhii (Retz) S.T. Blake; OWB], alfalfa, and yellow sweetclover (Melilotus officinalis L.; YSC): OWB‐legume. Each sampling procedure better estimated and predicted legume content in OWB‐legume pasture (R2cal = 0.40 to 0.78; R2pred = 0.40 to 0.78) than in TW‐alfalfa (R2cal = 0.02 to 0.61; R2pred = 0.08 to 0.61). Overall, the best predictive accuracy was obtained with the PowerPoint model in OWB‐legume pasture. Only the visual model showed potential in TW‐alfalfa because these two species were difficult to distinguish on‐screen by DIA methods or using spectral thresholds. The use of nondestructive sampling techniques to measure legume content is promising for mixed pastures when the grass and legume components are distinct hues of green. Although the need for more research is recognized, the ultimate goal is to apply these findings to automated scanners that offer producers rapid measurements of legume content in mixed pastures.

Stand density management and blue carbon stock of monospecific mangrove plantation in Bohol, Philippines

Abstract Blue carbon pertains to carbon stock that is stored by marine ecosystems including mangrove forest. Density and blue carbon stock assessment was conducted covering mature Rhizophora stylosa Griff. plantations in Bohol, Philippines. Three stand types were assessed: thinned mature stand (0.34 tree m−2 at 55 years old; 35 ha); non-thinned mature stand (1.2 tree m−2 at 55 years old; 20 ha) and young stand (2.6 tree m−2 at 20 years old; 150 ha). These plantations were initially established with a plant spacing of 0.5 m × 0.5 m. Non-destructive plot sampling technique was used to account biomass and carbon stocks of trees and sediments. Five (5) sample plots measuring 200 m2 were allocated for each stand type. Results showed that the total carbon stock of plantations amassed to 64.5 ktC or 236.6 ktCO2e. More than half (at least 54%) of this stock is imbedded in sediment. Individual accounts showed that carbon stock was largest in non-thinned stand with 435.2 tC ha−1, followed by thinned stand (408.5 tC ha−1) and young stand (276.8 tC ha−1). There was no significant difference between thinned and non-thinned mature stands carbon stocks. Such finding suggested the potential of having thinning intervention. Following the self-thinning rule of 1.1 to 1.3 tree m−2, the local community can harvest as much as 423 trees ha−1 yr−1 for 35 years starting at the plantation age of 20 years. Further, the additional carbon stock between the ages 20 to 55 years could reach about 580 tCO2e ha−1 with an economic value of USD 2,962 ha−1. With this potential benefits, it is recommended that Banacon Island should pursue a carbon offset project for its plantations.

Scuba diving damage on coralligenous builders: Bryozoan species as an indicator of stress

The effects of scuba diving activities on coralligenous concretions builders in the Mediterranean Sea are reported for a non-marine protected area (non-MPA). Five erect bryozoan species, which are particularly vulnerable due to their fragile structure, were investigated: Adeonella calveti, Myriapora truncata, Pentapora fascialis, Reteporella grimaldii, and Smittina cervicornis. These species were sampled at frequently and rarely visited diving sites to the maximum depths reachable with the most common recreational diving certifications (i.e., 40m). To do this, a non-destructive photographic sampling technique was used to minimize any impact on the benthic communities. For each sample, the number of colonies, their width, coverage, type of injury and degree of exposure were quantified using image analysis software. The number of species differed between the frequently and rarely visited diving sites, and frequently visited sites had significantly lower number of colonies and reduced colony width. Species-specific response to stress was associated with colony morphology and skeleton rigidity. Both the type of injury and colony position within the coralligenous habitat were affected by the presence of scuba divers. A linear model was proposed to analyse the response of bryozoans to scuba diving pressure. The results reported here suggest that P. fascialis and R. grimaldii could serve as robust species indicators of diving stress.

Observations of Canyon Wren Nestling Diet during Prey Delivery

ABSTRACT: We identified prey items being delivered by adult Canyon Wrens (Catherpes mexicanus) to nestlings on public lands in northern Colorado using digital photography. Adult wrens delivered single invertebrate prey items from 11 orders in four classes: Insecta, Arachnida, Malacostraca, and Chilopoda. Within Insecta and Chilopoda, we describe invertebrates from four families not previously documented as Canyon Wren prey: Noctuidae, Rhaphidophoridae, Formicidae, and Scutigeridae. Our observations align with previous studies in other locations indicating that insects and spiders are key components of the Canyon Wren diet. Moreover, our data show that additional locally available invertebrates including centipedes, isopods, and winged ants are captured to provision nestlings. Prey identification from digital imagery is a nondestructive sampling technique that can effectively be implemented for songbirds, and may be suited for citizen science monitoring programs on public lands.

Noninvasive and nondestructive sampling for avian microsatellite genotyping: a case study on the vulnerable Chinese Egret (Egretta eulophotes)

Noninvasive and nondestructive DNA sampling techniques are becoming more important in genetic studies because they can provide genetic material from wild animals with less or even without disturbance, which is particularly useful for the study of endangered species, i.e., birds. However, nondestructively and noninvasively sampled DNA may, in some cases, be inadequate in the amount and quality of the material collected, which can lead to low amplification success rates and high genotyping errors. In this study, noninvasive (eggshell swab, shed feather and feces), nondestructive (plucked feather and buccal swab) and invasive (blood) DNA samples were collected from the vulnerable Chinese Egret (Egretta eulophotes). DNA concentrations, PCR amplification success and microsatellite genotyping errors of different sample types were evaluated and compared to determine whether noninvasive and nondestructive samples performed as well as invasive samples in our experimental procedures. A total of 159 samples were collected in the field. Among the different sample types, the highest DNA concentrations (154.0–385.5 ng/μL) were obtained from blood. Those extracted from fecal samples were the lowest, ranging from 1.25 to 27.5 ng/μL. Almost all of the DNA samples, i.e., 95.59 %, were successfully amplified for mtDNA (n = 152) and 92.76 % of mtDNA samples were successfully genotyped for at least five of the nine microsatellite loci tested (n = 141). Blood samples and buccal swabs produced reliable genotypes with no genotyping errors, but in feces, allelic dropouts and false alleles occurred in all nine loci, with error rates ranging from 6.67 to 38.10 % for the dropouts and from 6.06 to 15.15 % for the false alleles. These results indicate that both nondestructive and noninvasive samplings are suitable for avian microsatellite genotyping, save for fecal DNA. However, we should remain cautious of the appearance of genotyping errors, especially when using noninvasive material.