Abu Dhabi: A new project to study and sequence genomes (hereditary information) of Peregrine and Saker Falcons has begun in Abu Dhabi.

Blood samples have been collected from specially selected male specimens of Peregrine and Saker at the Abu Dhabi Falcon Hospital (ADFH). DNA from these samples will be analysed to determine the full genetic sequences that make up the genome of these important species of falcons.

The project is under the Environment Agency — Abu Dhabi (EAD), and supported by Abu Dhabi Falcon Hospital (ADFH), the International Wildlife Consultants (UK) and two professors at the University of Cardiff in the UK.

The genome sequences will take two years of laboratory and computer work to analyse. They will enable biologists to study specific genes, providing new insights into the evolution of these species and increase understanding of their basic biology and hereditary diseases.

To date, genome sequences have only been obtained for two bird species, the chicken and the Zebra Finch — a small songbird.

Despite having a smaller genome than humans, birds have a similar number of genes of which approximately 23,000 are responsible for their physical and behavioural characteristics.

Now that blood samples have been collected from specially selected male specimens of the Peregrine and Saker falcons by ADFH, their DNA will be sequenced at the BGI — formerly known as the Beijing Genetics Institute — in Shenzen, China, which is an internationally renowned centre which recently produced whole genome sequences for the Giant Panda and the Camel. The falcon genome project is headed by Professor Mike Bruford and Dr Xiangjiang Zhan at the University of Cardiff in the UK. He is working in cooperation with International Wildlife Consultants (UK) Ltd, who is acting on behalf of the Environment Agency Abu Dhabi (EAD).

Milestone

Mohammad Ahmad Al Bowardi, Secretary-General of the Executive Council of Abu Dhabi Emirate and Managing Director of EAD, said: "This is a major milestone in our understanding of falcon genetics and will prove to be a lasting tool for scientists working on the conservation of these species."

"The genome project is taking a major step in a more strategic approach for research and conservation management," he added.