ABSTRACT

Isozyme analysis is a powerful technique for assaying genetic variation within and among populations. This versatile approach has been used on bacteria, fungi, plants, and most major groups of animals, from insects and other invertebrates to fish and mammals. The appeal of isozyme analysis stems from its ease of use, low cost, and speed. DNA-based technologies can provide a higher level of polymorphism with concomitantly greater resolution. However, when sufficient variation is present, isozymes provide the fastest, easiest answers to biological questions at a significantly lower cost compared to other available techniques.