A protocol for non-destructive extraction of DNA from odonates

Genetic methods are often utilised for the ecological study of odon. spp. In many instances, especially from a conservation standpoint, it is desirable to employ a method of extracting DNA that does not affect the subsequent survival of the animal under investigation. Removal of part of an odon. leg has been demonstrated not to affect the subsequent reproductive success of the animal. Thus for odonates, a simple and quick method of extracting DNA from a portion of an odon. leg is presented that provides high yields of DNA suitable for PCR.