Tracking ghosts: harnessing environmental DNA for detecting elusive aquatic species

Session: 09. - Modeling, Detecting, and Managing Rarity

Chris Wilson, ON Ministry of Natural Resources, Trent University, [email protected]
Kristyne Wozney, Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources, [email protected]
Caleigh Smith, Ministry of Natural Resources and Forestry, [email protected]
Scott Reid, Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources, [email protected]

Abstract

In aquatic environments, the detection of rare species such as endangered taxa or early-stage invasive species is challenging at best, and discriminating between detection failure (null) versus true absence (zero) can be difficult.  Environmental DNA detection is being used for complementary applications for low-abundance invasive and endangered species in Ontario.  Effective management of both groups requires sensitive detection of species occurrences, and discriminating between detection failure and true absence has significant consequences for species and habitat management.  eDNA surveillance is currently being used in Ontario to map the spatial presence, absence, and seasonal habitat use of aquatic endangered fish species to support legislative protection of critical habitats, as well as to survey Ontario waters of Lake Erie for the potential occurrence of Asian carps (bighead, silver, grass and black carp).  Other applications have included tracking species presence and diurnal movements, documenting species presence in ephemeral habitats, and mapping temporal habitat usage.  These different applications and combined results confirm the utility of environmental DNA as a reliable method for species detection in freshwater systems, as well as its effectiveness for detecting both invasive and endangered freshwater species.

1. Keyword
fish

2. Keyword
invasive species

3. Keyword
genetics