A Method for Preparing Morphologically Preserved Wildlife Fecal Specimens for Long-Term Ecological Studies
Year: 2025
Type: preprint
Abstract: 1.Wildlife feces are a valuable non-invasive resource in ecological and conser-vation research. However, traditional preservation methods are unable to maintain morphological integrity while simultaneously preserving the biological and chemical composition of fecal samples. 2.This study presents a novel method for preparing fecal specimens through a multi-step immersion process using sodium carboxymethyl cellulose, sodium benzo-ate, clotrimazole, ethanol, pyrethroid emulsion, and polyvinylpyrrolidone solution. 3.The specimens produced by this method exhibited high mechanical strength, ensuring durability and resistance to handling damage. Over a six-month storage pe-riod, this method successfully preserved the morphological characteristics of fecal samples while maintaining DNA integrity, with no signs of mold or insect damage. DNA extraction achieved a 100% success rate, and species identification remained consistent with fresh samples, with BLAST match rates exceeding 99% in 15 speci-mens. Additionally, heavy metals such as chromium, arsenic, and lead were detected in fecal samples from different species. 4.By enabling the long-term preservation of fecal specimens, this method trans-forms feces from a short-term diagnostic tool into a durable resource for biodiversity monitoring. It can extend the applications of fecal samples across spatial and tem-poral scales, reinforcing their role in ecological research and global biodiversity conservation.
Authors: Zhang Jiahao, Zhang Dongling, Xu Xinrui, Zhang Yunqiao, Dai Qiang
Language: English
Subfield: Ecology
Field: Environmental Science
Domain: Physical Sciences
SDG: Life on land
Open Access status: green
Award: G3593510955
OpenAlex ID: W4413968056