Challenges relating to the collection of high quality field samples and how to overcome them

Abstract

The collection of high quality samples from wildlife or wild game species in the field is challenging. Sampling of free ranging species can be complicated by decay, predation and open to non-random selection. In addition, correct storage and expedient transport of samples is often fraught with technical difficulties due to inaccessibility of sampling sites and adverse environmental conditions. This chapter will expand on these challenges and propose methods to optimise sample collection and transportation for diagnostic and research material in order to get the most out of these valuable resources. Such challenges should not be seen as limiting factors to good research projects but carefully factored into the study design, data analysis and result interpretation. Topics covered will include in-field sampling for histopathology, bacteriology, virology, cytology, serology, toxicology, parasitology and genetic analysis. In addition, the emergence of new diagnostic tools applicable to the field situation and how best to future-proof samples will be discussed.