Animal Identification Kit: Catch a Predator Level I Manual -Catalog #7005 (Restriction Digestion kit, DNA samples provided)

Animal Identification Kit: Catch a Predator Level II Manual- Catalog #7006 (PCR kit, DNA samples provided)

The students are asked to identify an unknown predatory animal that is killing calves on a nearby ranch. The kit includes three different DNA samples, each representing possible animals, and an "unknown" DNA sample left behind by the predator. After completing the experiment, students will not only find out the answer, but also understand restriction digests or PCR, gel electrophoresis, and genetic concepts associated with this experiment. 

Each kit is good for 24 students with 6 reactions worth of material for each of the samples (The unknown and Sample A, B and C) and 24 reactions of a 2X Master Mix.

• Scenario: The rancher found hair left behind by the suspect predator. The students are asked to identify the responsible animal.
  

• Multiple Plasmid DNA: Plasmid DNA is used to emulate the genetic diversity seen in animals. Four plasmid samples are included in the kit, one representing DNA from the predator, and three for comparison against the predator sample.

• Ease of Use: The protocol is easy to understand and follow. Kit components are ready-made and easy to set up, reducing preparation time for instructors.
  

• Learning Application: The kit teaches the fundamental concepts of genetic diversity and real world applications in animal identification, while introducing students to restriction digests or PCR and gel electrophoresis.

Kit Components

Watch our brief video overview of our Catch a Predator: Animal Identification Kit I (Restriction Digestion) below.

Watch our brief video overview of our Catch a Prdeator: Animal Identification Kit II (PCR) below.