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Chinese crocodile lizards (Shinisaurus crocodilurus) are critically endangered and captive breeding is crucial to their long-term survival. However, these lizards are difficult to sex, hampering conservation efforts. Researchers will develop a simple genetic test to identify if a crocodile lizard is male or female. The test will be used to determine the sex of every crocodile lizard in participating American and Canadian zoos to help save the species. Additionally, researchers will create a detailed written protocol for distribution to zoos worldwide to facilitate captive breeding of Chinese crocodile lizards at additional facilities.

Study ID
D19ZO-021
Study Status
Active
Start Date
06/01/2019
Grant amount awarded
$38,391
Grant recipient
Marquette University
Study country
United States
Investigator
Tony Gamble, PhD
Study category
Genetics