Genetic analysis of trapped mink in East Anglia

Tender description

1. An optimised panel of >60 microsatellite markers suitable for the genetic analysis of American mink and applicable to samples from across the UK and beyond. 2. An optimised procedure for low-cost mitochondrial DNA sequencing. 3. Sequencing and genotyping of all samples collected up until the end of Jan-uary 2023. 4. Genetic analysis of these samples, to include: identification of parent-offspring pairs / trios, reconstruction of the best-fit distribution of dispersal dis-tances; a geographic map of genetic population size estimates; a genetic map of mink across the East of England. 5. Final output in the form of a report including a description of the methods used, detailed results and recommended next steps detailing how the results can be used to inform trapping projects. The report will include any con-straints, limitations and areas for future work and development. The report will be drafted using Microsoft Office software on the appropriate Natural England Template (to be supplied). Any detailed supporting information will be presented in annexes.