A simple DNA analysis for identifying Eel species by using polymerase chain reaction-restriction fragment length polymorphism method

Abstract

A simple, rapid, inexpensive and reliable DNA analysis method has been developed for identifying eel species by using polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and restriction fragment length polymorphism (RFLP) technique. Present method is for practical use to prevent the illegal trade of selling glass eels of foreign species as Japanese species (Anguilla japonica). Three restriction enzymes were selected to digest recognition sites which are specific only for A. japonica. Additional enzymes were used for simple identification of species by comparing a digestion pattern of recognition sites specific for 6 respective species.