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Instructions for Using the DNA Sampling Kit for Atlantic Tarpon

The objective is to remove a small sample of skin cells from the outer jaw of the captured tarpon before it is released.  This can be done with minimal handling while the fish remains in the water.

DNA Sampling Kit
• Three (3) abrasive scrub pads
   for single use
• A pencil
• An instruction sheet
• Waterproof data sheet
• Three (3) labeled vials with
   storage solution

Instructions for Use

1. Though this task might be easier as a two-person operation, a freshly captured tarpon is often easily controlled by one person grasping the jaw with one hand leaving the other hand free to obtain the sample.  

2. When the captured tarpon is beside the boat under control, use the sampling sponge to rub the fish's outer jaw until the sponge is white or silver. A $50.00 permit (jawtag) is not required to take a DNA jaw scrape from a tarpon.

3. After the tarpon is released, rinse your hands in seawater to remove all slime.

4. Place the sponge into a vial containing storage solution and close the lid tightly.  Try not to let slime, excess water, or other things get into the vial. 

5. At least 3/4 of the sponge should be submerged in the storage solution.  If the solution spills or has drained out of the vial, insert the sponge into the vial but keep that vial refrigerated/frozen until a replacement vial containing storage solution can be obtained. Once the sponge is re-submerged in the replacement vial, it no longer requires refrigeration.

6. It is very important to use a different sponge and vial for each different fish.

7. Vials are pre-labeled with a specimen ID number (for example Mat-25-01).  Write the identification number on a data sheet in the spot for a new entry and record the additional information for each different tarpon.

8. We are asking for location information to track the movement of tarpon when they are recaptured.  General descriptive information (such as 200 yards south of the end of the north Skyway Pier) is fine.  GPS coordinates, if available, are preferred.  We are also asking if the fish swam away safely.  If it died (for example was eaten by a shark), we can still use the information for our study of stock structure.

9. Samples can remain at room temperature until delivery to FWRI as long as the sponge is at least 3/4 submerged in the storage solution. If not, please see number 5 above. Jaw scrape tissues might start to dissolve into the storage solution over time—this is OK.

Kits and refills (additional vials and data sheets) are available by e-mailing tarpongenetics@myfwc.com or call 1-800-367-4461. 

Even if you do not have a kit, you can still collect a sample!  Here's how...

• Use a clean pair of scissors to take a one-half inch (1/2") fin clip preferably from the long "thread" part of the dorsal fin.

• Place the fin clip into a clean plastic baggie (e.g. Ziploc) and immediately place on ice in your cooler.

• Place a label with your name, contact  information, date and location of capture, and approximate length of tarpon in the baggie with the sample or write it on the bag (see step 8 above).

• When you arrive home, place the Ziploc with the DNA sample(s) in your freezer until they can be dropped off at FWRI or you receive a sampling kit. Finclips from your freezer can then be transferred to the vials of storage solution in the sampling kit.

• Remember to rinse and dry the scissors between uses for different tarpon.  Always use a clean baggie and new label for each different sample.

Feel free to hold all of your samples until the end of the tarpon season.  All samples can be dropped off at one of the sites listed below, at an FWRI facility near you or just mail them to FWC FWRI, Attention: Tarpon Genetics, 100 8th Ave SE, St. Petersburg, FL 33701

Good news...
We have already identified four (4) recaptured tarpon from DNA samples donated by our Florida anglers!

Thank you for all of your efforts!

FWRI / MML TARPON GENETIC RECAPTURE PROGRAM
KIT DISTRIBUTION AND/OR SAMPLE COLLECTION LOCATIONS
(as of 06-10-2008)

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