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An inaugural meeting of the Sea Turtle Genetics Working Group (STGWG) was held on the 6th March 1998 at the 18th Annual Symposium on Sea Turtle Biology and Conservation in Mazatlan, Mexico. In addition, the group was formally recognised as a Task Force of the IUCN-Marine Turtle Specialist Group (MTSG) at the annual meeting of the MTSG held at the Symposium on 7th March. Topics discussed at the working group meeting were:

1) World-Wide Web site listing of DNA sequences: Alan Bolten outlined plans to set up a listing of mtDNA sequences of Atlantic green turtles on an internet site at the Archie Carr Center for Sea Turtle Research (ACCSTR), University of Florida, USA, in order to avoid duplication and confusion naming new haplotypes before they are published and submitted to GENBANK. It was proposed that a standardised naming system would be followed and possible novel haplotypes could be compared with those on the web site. It was agreed that in principle this was a good idea. There was also discussion on how different sequence databases could be maintained for particular species/regions by appropriate research groups and how links to these could be posted on the ACCSTR Web Site.

2) DNA/tissue archive: Peter Dutton talked briefly about the sea turtle tissue/DNA archive he has established and offered to bank any tissue for back-up or archiving. This may be particularly useful for researchers working with serum or plasma who normally discard cells which could be archived for possible future genetics work. A database is maintained and a contact person included in the information where appropriate. Depositors also specify whether the samples are available for use by others or whether approval is needed. Additional permits may be needed to transfer specimens from original storage locations within the USA. The Southwest Fisheries Science Center has a CITES Scientific Exchange Permit (SEP) which allows international exchange of samples with other registered institutions.

3) Permits: The discussion focused on international issues, and political problems. In the USA, the Fish & Wildlife Service (USFWS) issues permits, and questions on policy can be directed to Maggie Tieger +1 800 358 2104, or +1 703 358 2104. The USFWS considers PCR product to be exempt from CITES only if there is no original template in the sample (e.g. magnetic beads were used). Possible ways to facilitate permitting were discussed, in particular co-ordinating sample exchanges between institutions registered with CITES SEP. Samples deposited in museum collections can be exchanged between registered institutions. It was agreed that interested parties would investigate the situation in their respective countries and compile a directory. Also to identify museums, universities or other institutions with scientific collections that would be able to facilitate sea turtle research by applying for a CITES SEP. Nancy Daves at the NOAA-NMFS Office of Protected Resources in Washington offered to send information on CITES SEP for those who need it.

4) Analytical Software: Interest was expressed in exchanging analytical software. Kris Kichler (University of Texas) offered to share a program co-written with Mark Holder to test for multiple paternity. Several people were interested in obtaining Maximum Likelihood software, particularly the new SHADPERM.

5) Ongoing Discussions: It was agreed that the group would continue discussion of these and related issues primarily through an internet discussion group to be organised by the Chair. For a full version of the minutes or to join the discussion group, please contact Peter Dutton (details above).