A Forensics Program for Identification of Fish and Wildlife Species

As a part of a cooperative effort between the Fisheries and Law Enforcement Division of the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department, a comprehensive program for forensic identification of fish and wildlife species has been implemented. Results of comparisons of blood stains from various wildlife species indicate that isoelectric focusing of blood produces genetic "fingerprints" that are characteristic for individual species. Results of 3 representative cases are reported and the program enactment is outlined.