Species identification method by a new non-invasive technique in Korean endangered terrestrial snail, Koreanohadra Koreana (Gastropoda: Mollusca)

Koreanohadra koreana (K. koreana) is an endemic species in South Korea that is listed as endangered. While the ecology and phylogenetics of K. koreana have been studied, its morphological similarity to the related species Koreanohadra kurodana (K. kurodana), can make species identification difficult. Furthermore, this has led to confusion when determining essential habitat information for the conservation of K. koreana. To bypass this issue, we have developed a non-invasive species identification method that can genetically differentiate between them. While there are already various non-invasive genomic DNA (gDNA) extraction methods that utilize the mucus from mollusks, they are limited as they require the target species to be physically located. To address this, in this investigation a method of extracting gDNA from the feces of snails was developed. The method utilized a primer set to amplify a cytochrome b fragment from K. koreana but not K. kurodana or other terrestrial snails. The feces of terrestrial snails could thus be used to obtain gDNA to a genetically usable level if collected within 5 days of excretion. This non-invasive species identification method using feces will help to facilitate genetic research without harming the endangered species and if the target species is not physically in the habitat. Moreover, K. koreana and K. kurodana could perhaps be further distinguished, using their habitat information to help facilitate essential conservation measures.