Lion Localizer

Lion Localizer determines the geographic provenance of seized lion (Panthera leo) samples by comparing mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) cytochrome b sequences to a curated reference database for conservation and forensic purposes.

Key Features:

• Comprehensive mtDNA database: Contains mitochondrial DNA sequences from lions sampled at 146 localities across Africa and India compiled from previously published studies.
• Sequence length support: Supports cytochrome b sequences of 350 base pairs (bp) or 1,140 bp derived from seized lion products.
• Match identification: Identifies exact or partial sequence matches between queried samples and database entries.
• Geospatial mapping of matches: Maps matched database localities onto a geographic representation of Africa to indicate potential sample provenance.
• Provenance tracing: Associates sequence matches with geographic localities to trace movement of trafficked items from origin toward transit or destination countries.

Scientific Applications:

• Forensic provenance assignment: Provides genetic evidence to assign geographic origin of confiscated lion body parts for wildlife crime investigations.
• Poaching source identification: Identifies potential source regions to inform spatial analyses of poaching patterns.
• Conservation planning: Informs targeted conservation actions and mitigation strategies by revealing geographic origins of impacted populations.
• Illegal trade network analysis: Supports tracing of trafficking routes by linking seized specimens to known sampling localities.

Methodology:

Cytochrome b mtDNA sequences (350 or 1,140 bp) obtained from seized lion products are compared against a curated reference database of lion mtDNA to identify exact or partial matches, and matched localities are mapped to indicate sample provenance.