RAPD IDENTIFICATION OF NORTH EUROPEAN WATER FROGS

A technique for the identification of north European water frogs (Rana lessonae, R. ridibunda and R. esculenta) based on PCR (polymerase cha in reaction)-amplification of DNA using random primers (RAPD) is prese nted. The method requires very small amounts (< 2 mg) of tissue and re liably distinguished the three types of frogs using samples taken from two widely separate localities (Britain and Poland). In addition, the primers distinguished the DNA of water frogs from that of a brown fro g (R. temporaria) and from that of two toad species (Bufo bufo and B. calamita).