Age Estimation Through Cementum Annuli Analysis
Cementum Annuli Analysis
Currently, we are using the Cementum Annuli Analysis technique to determine the age of wild animals, This technique has been favoured for its maximum accuracy in determining the age of an
animal. However, we are involved in developing new non-destructive aging techniques in collaboration with our research collaborators the Wildlife Analytical Laboratories (DeerAge), Missoula, MT, USA
The following age estimation protocols have been developed by us. Tiger and lion protocols have jointly been developed in collaboration with DeerAge
Spotted deer
First incisor teeth from mandibles of known estimated
ages (2, 4, 5, 8 and 9 years) were used
Wildlife Conservation Through Age Estimation
Legal Hunting: Helpful to Wildlife Conservation & Humans
Hunting of some wild animals is a legal practice in few parts of the world. The aging of the hunted animal indicates whether it has lived its average life in the wild.
This helps in maintaining of carrying capacity of a habitat & generate revenue for the authorities which may be utilized for the conservation.
This also help in containment of zoonotic diseases.
Scientific Management of Wild Populations
The authorities may utilize the age data, generated for different mammalian species, to know the quality of their habitat and health. The body weight & age of mammals have been found directly correlated with their habitat conditions.
Help Identify Age Class Preference of Wild Animals in Illegal Wildlife Trade
The age and sex of a deer species has been found to affect poaching, where poaching of male individuals was found to be more than females.
Average Age of Whitetail Deer Mapped in USA by DeerAge
The Wildlife Analytical laboratories (DeerAge), Missoula, MT, USA, our research collaborator, have compiled the data for all the whitetail deer they have aged. With this map, one can see the average age for each state as well as what percentage of the total whitetail deer come from each state.
Development of Reproductive Histories of Bear and Other Sp
How many time a female bear has given birth and has successfully raised her cubs can be determined through cementum annuli analysis
Jointly with our international collaborators the DeerAge, we have determined the reproductive histories of American Brown Bears. Similarly, we can develop the protocols for other mammalian species.