ABSTRACT
One of the objectives of the international Workshop on Nondestructive Biomarkers in Vertebrates was to develop a consensus of the participants on the future directions and key research needs in the area of nondestructive biomarkers in vertebrates. Working groups focused on three areas of discussion: scientific and regulatory applications of nondestructive biomarkers; application of nondestructive biomarkers in studies of endangered and protected species; and advanced methodologies and innovative technologies to improve nondestructive biomonitoring. More research is urgently needed to devise new markers suitable for nondestructive monitoring of exposure, or to improve already established markers; however, priorities should be established based on recognition of the following general aims. Much of the initial motivation for development and applications of nondestructive biomarkers arises from efforts to assess the health status of protected or threatened species that cannot be examined by destructive means. In most natural populations, little information is available about the normal levels of many of the biochemical parameters used as biomarkers.
