Roles of animal trophies in museums on conservation practices: case study of Palace museums of the west region of Cameroon

Abstract

Palace museums harbour important animal remains (trophies), this is the case too with palace museums of the West region of Cameroon. Here we present a preliminary study into the animal-based collections of palace museums from a genetic conservation perspective. We surveyed 11 chiefdom palace museums in the West Region of Cameroon. We collected samples of these trophies. We extracted and purified DNA from these trophies using the DNeasy® Blood and Tissue Kit. Quantification and quality control were done using the agarose gel electrophoresis and spectrophotometric methods. From agarose gel electrophoresis, 64% of specimens have DNA that could be of good quality, 12% of specimens have contaminated DNA, while 12% of specimens have degraded DNA. Spectrophotometric determination reveals that 28% of the specimens has quantifiable DNA against 72% that was of poor DNA quantity. Specimens with good quality DNA could be used for further studies (for instance, DNA sequencing for wildlife traceability). In order to perpetuate the conservation role played by the tradition through museums, the administration has to regulate the acquisition and use of trophies in traditional and cultural events in the forest law actually under revision. Museums have to ensure compliance with the criteria of acquisition and management of wildlife trophies