Species Identification of Bushmeat Marketed by Using DNA Barcoding in the Region of Kisangani, D. R. Congo
Abstract
The Congo Basin Rainforest is characterized by a rich diversity in mammals. Scientific research demonstrated that this biodiversity is currently under high pressure. The survival of the fauna is threatened due to overexploitation as the demand for bushmeat as the primary source of animal protein increases due to the growing human population. This phenomenon is observed in the region of Kisangani, the biggest city in the northeast of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC).
Method: This study reports on the species diversity involved in the bushmeat trade in the region of Kisangani by means of DNA barcoding of mitochondrial DNA fragments cytochrome c oxidase subunit I (COI) and cytochrome b. An identification success rate of 65% was achieved (231 of 353 samples).
Research showed that in fact all mammal species are hunted, including endangered species as the chimpanzee (Pan troglodytes) and the okapi (Okapia johnstoni). Duikers (Cephalophinae) are the most important group of bushmeat species in terms of numbers (34%). Mammal species, except for rodents, become depleted in the close surroundings of Kisangani due to overexploitation. Mainly big-sized and medium-sized animals, which are profitable enough to compensate for the transport costs, are available on the market in Kisangani. Animals larger than 40 à 45 centimeters (shoulder height) are killed with shotguns, smaller animals are trapped. The bushmeat trade is explored more into detail by interviewing all parties involved in the bushmeat trade from hunters over sellers to the consumers, with regard to conservation of the fauna.
This dissertation proved overexploitation of wild animals in the region of Kisangani, DRC. Bushmeat consumption is reduced most effectively when it is becoming more expensive than alternative protein resources, rather than increasing the awareness on overexploitation or diseases emerging from wild animal consumption.
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