Data from: Validating the use of coloration patterns for individual recognition in the worm pipefish using a novel set of microsatellite markers

In studies of behaviour, ecology and evolution, identification of
individual organisms can be an invaluable tool, capable of unravelling
otherwise cryptic information regarding group structure, movement
patterns, population size and mating strategies. The use of natural
markings is arguably the least invasive method for identification.
However, to be truly useful natural markings must be sufficiently variable
to allow for unique identification, while being stable enough to permit
long-term studies. Non-invasive marking techniques are especially
important in fishes of the Family Syngnathidae (pipefishes, seahorses and
seadragons), as many of these taxa are of conservation concern or used
extensively in studies of sexual selection. Here, we assessed the
reliability of natural markings as a character for individual
identification in a wild population of Nerophis lumbriciformis by
comparing results from natural markings to individual genetic assignments
based on eight novel microsatellite loci. We also established a minimally
invasive method based on epithelial cell swabbing to sample DNA. All
pipefish used in the validation of natural markings, independently of sex
or time between recaptures, were individually recognized through facial
colouration patterns. Their identities were verified by the observation of
the same multilocus genotype at every sampling event for each individual
that was identified on the basis of natural markings. Successful
recaptures of previously swabbed pipefish indicated that this process
probably did not induce an elevated rate of mortality. Also, the recapture
of newly pregnant males showed that swabbing did not affect reproductive
behaviour.