Are white sharks migrating across oceans?
In this lab, students join a team of scientists who have noticed a similar-looking shark fin off the coasts of Australia, California, Hawai’i, and South Africa.
Using DNA fingerprinting, students determine whether an individual shark is migrating across oceans to reach these different coastal waters.
This gel electrophoresis lab provides an introduction to DNA-based identification in an ecology context. Perfect for introductory high school or advanced middle school classes, this activity explores the importance of white sharks in marine ecosystems and how scientific research can inform conservation efforts.
Key info and benefits:
- Techniques: Micropipetting, gel electrophoresis
- Can be completed in a 45 minute class period
- This kit provides enough DNA samples for eight groups (40 students).
- These DNA samples are optimised for blueGel™ electrophoresis systems. For post-staining techniques, more sample may be required per well.
- Suggested skill level: High school to university
- Students are exposed to the fundamental principles of DNA analysis comparing patterns of cleaved DNA by gel electrophoresis.
- Students gain experience in gel electrophoresis, DNA visualisation, DNA fingerprint analysis.
Kit includes:
- 4 simulated shark DNA samples for fingerprinting analysis (150uL each)
- Samples come premixed with gel loading dye
- See notes for extra requirements
Notes:
- See resources below to download the teacher's guide and student guide for this lab. Contact Southern Biological for answers key.
- To perform this lab, you will require electrophoresis equipment; such as electrophoresis chamber, agarose, TBE buffer and Midori green gel stain.
- Our electrophoresis starter kit contains the hardware and reagents required.
- For best results, we recommend running your gels in the blueGel electrophoresis chamber.
- If you do not have a blueGel electrophoresis unit with built-in illuminator, we have a transilluminator onto which you can place your gels to visualise your results immediately after the electrophoresis run is complete.
- If kept in the freezer, reagents can be stored for 12 months after receipt.
- If kept in the refrigerator, reagents can be stored for 6 months after receipt.
- They are stable during transit.
