Antlers ID Flashcards
1
Q
What are antlers?
A
Bony outgrowths of frontal bone usually found in males.
2
Q
When is antler likely to be intact and easy to identify?
A
When it is used as a decorative piece.
3
Q
Why is mtDNA favoured?
A
It shows greater variation between closely related individuals (Gunn, A. 2009).
4
Q
Where will most DNA be found in antler?
A
In the osteocytes in the bone marrow.
5
Q
What, other than DNA may be present on antler to identify the species?
A
Hair
Blood - antideer antibodies
6
Q
Advantages of antler as forensic evidence.
A
- If intact - easy based on morphology and obvious if forcefully removed - toolmarks and velvet
- Offenders DNA likely to be present
7
Q
Disadvantages of antler as forensic evidence
A
- Often sold in slices so morphology difficult
2. Fraud means many slices must be DNA tested
