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Bhendarkar M, Rodriguez-Ezpeleta N. Exploring uncharted territory: new frontiers in environmental DNA for tropical fisheries management. ENVIRONMENTAL MONITORING AND ASSESSMENT 2024; 196:617. [PMID: 38874640 DOI: 10.1007/s10661-024-12788-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/07/2023] [Accepted: 06/06/2024] [Indexed: 06/15/2024]
Abstract
Tropical ecosystems host a significant share of global fish diversity contributing substantially to the global fisheries sector. Yet their sustainable management is challenging due to their complexity, diverse life history traits of tropical fishes, and varied fishing techniques involved. Traditional monitoring techniques are often costly, labour-intensive, and/or difficult to apply in inaccessible sites. These limitations call for the adoption of innovative, sensitive, and cost-effective monitoring solutions, especially in a scenario of climate change. Environmental DNA (eDNA) emerges as a potential game changer for biodiversity monitoring and conservation, especially in aquatic ecosystems. However, its utility in tropical settings remains underexplored, primarily due to a series of challenges, including the need for a comprehensive barcode reference library, an understanding of eDNA behaviour in tropical aquatic environments, standardized procedures, and supportive biomonitoring policies. Despite these challenges, the potential of eDNA for sensitive species detection across varied habitats is evident, and its global use is accelerating in biodiversity conservation efforts. This review takes an in-depth look at the current state and prospects of eDNA-based monitoring in tropical fisheries management research. Additionally, a SWOT analysis is used to underscore the opportunities and threats, with the aim of bridging the knowledge gaps and guiding the more extensive and effective use of eDNA-based monitoring in tropical fisheries management. Although the discussion applies worldwide, some specific experiences and insights from Indian tropical fisheries are shared to illustrate the practical application and challenges of employing eDNA in a tropical context.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mukesh Bhendarkar
- AZTI, Marine Research, Basque Research and Technology Alliance (BRTA), 48395, Sukarrieta, Bizkaia, Spain.
- ICAR-National Institute of Abiotic Stress Management, Baramati, 413 115, Maharashtra, India.
| | - Naiara Rodriguez-Ezpeleta
- AZTI, Marine Research, Basque Research and Technology Alliance (BRTA), 48395, Sukarrieta, Bizkaia, Spain
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2
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Cheng R, Zhou X, Zhang Y, Li Q, Zhang J, Luo Y, Chen Q, Liu Z, Li Y, Shen Y. eDNA reveals spatial homogenization of fish diversity in a mountain river affected by a reservoir cascade. JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT 2024; 361:121248. [PMID: 38820798 DOI: 10.1016/j.jenvman.2024.121248] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/19/2023] [Revised: 05/05/2024] [Accepted: 05/25/2024] [Indexed: 06/02/2024]
Abstract
One of the main reasons for the decline in global freshwater biodiversity can be attributed to alterations in hydrological conditions resulting from dam construction. However, the majority of current research has focused on single or limited numbers of dams. Here, we carried out a seasonal fish survey, using environmental DNA (eDNA) method, on the Wujiang River mainstream (Tributaries of the Yangtze River, China) to investigate the impact of large-scale cascade hydropower development on changes in fish diversity patterns. eDNA survey revealed that native fish species have decreased in contrast to alien fish. There was also a shift in fish community structure, with declines of the dominant rheophilic fish species, an increase of the small-size fish species, and homogenization of species composition across reservoirs. Additionally, environmental factors, such as temperature, dissolved oxygen and reservoir age, had a significant effect on fish community diversity. This study provides basic information for the evaluation of the impact of cascade developments on fish diversity patterns.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ruli Cheng
- Laboratory of Water Ecological Health and Environmental Safety, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Conservation and Utilization of Freshwater Fishes, Animal Biology Key Laboratory of Chongqing Education Commission, Chongqing Normal University, Chongqing, 401331, China
| | - Xinxin Zhou
- Laboratory of Water Ecological Health and Environmental Safety, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Conservation and Utilization of Freshwater Fishes, Animal Biology Key Laboratory of Chongqing Education Commission, Chongqing Normal University, Chongqing, 401331, China
| | - Yufeng Zhang
- Laboratory of Water Ecological Health and Environmental Safety, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Conservation and Utilization of Freshwater Fishes, Animal Biology Key Laboratory of Chongqing Education Commission, Chongqing Normal University, Chongqing, 401331, China
| | - Qinghua Li
- Laboratory of Water Ecological Health and Environmental Safety, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Conservation and Utilization of Freshwater Fishes, Animal Biology Key Laboratory of Chongqing Education Commission, Chongqing Normal University, Chongqing, 401331, China
| | - Jiaming Zhang
- Laboratory of Water Ecological Health and Environmental Safety, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Conservation and Utilization of Freshwater Fishes, Animal Biology Key Laboratory of Chongqing Education Commission, Chongqing Normal University, Chongqing, 401331, China
| | - Yang Luo
- Laboratory of Water Ecological Health and Environmental Safety, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Conservation and Utilization of Freshwater Fishes, Animal Biology Key Laboratory of Chongqing Education Commission, Chongqing Normal University, Chongqing, 401331, China
| | - Qiliang Chen
- Laboratory of Water Ecological Health and Environmental Safety, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Conservation and Utilization of Freshwater Fishes, Animal Biology Key Laboratory of Chongqing Education Commission, Chongqing Normal University, Chongqing, 401331, China
| | - Zhihao Liu
- Laboratory of Water Ecological Health and Environmental Safety, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Conservation and Utilization of Freshwater Fishes, Animal Biology Key Laboratory of Chongqing Education Commission, Chongqing Normal University, Chongqing, 401331, China
| | - Yingwen Li
- Laboratory of Water Ecological Health and Environmental Safety, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Conservation and Utilization of Freshwater Fishes, Animal Biology Key Laboratory of Chongqing Education Commission, Chongqing Normal University, Chongqing, 401331, China
| | - Yanjun Shen
- Laboratory of Water Ecological Health and Environmental Safety, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Conservation and Utilization of Freshwater Fishes, Animal Biology Key Laboratory of Chongqing Education Commission, Chongqing Normal University, Chongqing, 401331, China.
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3
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Perry WB, Seymour M, Orsini L, Jâms IB, Milner N, Edwards F, Harvey R, de Bruyn M, Bista I, Walsh K, Emmett B, Blackman R, Altermatt F, Lawson Handley L, Mächler E, Deiner K, Bik HM, Carvalho G, Colbourne J, Cosby BJ, Durance I, Creer S. An integrated spatio-temporal view of riverine biodiversity using environmental DNA metabarcoding. Nat Commun 2024; 15:4372. [PMID: 38782932 PMCID: PMC11116482 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-024-48640-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/13/2023] [Accepted: 05/09/2024] [Indexed: 05/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Anthropogenically forced changes in global freshwater biodiversity demand more efficient monitoring approaches. Consequently, environmental DNA (eDNA) analysis is enabling ecosystem-scale biodiversity assessment, yet the appropriate spatio-temporal resolution of robust biodiversity assessment remains ambiguous. Here, using intensive, spatio-temporal eDNA sampling across space (five rivers in Europe and North America, with an upper range of 20-35 km between samples), time (19 timepoints between 2017 and 2018) and environmental conditions (river flow, pH, conductivity, temperature and rainfall), we characterise the resolution at which information on diversity across the animal kingdom can be gathered from rivers using eDNA. In space, beta diversity was mainly dictated by turnover, on a scale of tens of kilometres, highlighting that diversity measures are not confounded by eDNA from upstream. Fish communities showed nested assemblages along some rivers, coinciding with habitat use. Across time, seasonal life history events, including salmon and eel migration, were detected. Finally, effects of environmental conditions were taxon-specific, reflecting habitat filtering of communities rather than effects on DNA molecules. We conclude that riverine eDNA metabarcoding can measure biodiversity at spatio-temporal scales relevant to species and community ecology, demonstrating its utility in delivering insights into river community ecology during a time of environmental change.
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Affiliation(s)
- William Bernard Perry
- Molecular Ecology and Evolution at Bangor (MEEB), School of Biological Sciences, Bangor University, Bangor, Gwynedd, LL57 2UW, UK.
- Water Research Institute, Cardiff University, Cardiff, CF10 3AX, UK.
| | | | - Luisa Orsini
- Environmental Genomics Group, School of Biosciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, B15 2TT, UK
| | - Ifan Bryn Jâms
- Water Research Institute, Cardiff University, Cardiff, CF10 3AX, UK
| | - Nigel Milner
- Molecular Ecology and Evolution at Bangor (MEEB), School of Biological Sciences, Bangor University, Bangor, Gwynedd, LL57 2UW, UK
| | - François Edwards
- APEM Ltd, A17 Embankment Business Park, Heaton Mersey, Manchester, SK4 3GN, UK
| | - Rachel Harvey
- Centre for Ecology & Hydrology, Environment Centre Wales, Bangor, LL57 2UW, UK
| | - Mark de Bruyn
- Australian Research Centre for Human Evolution, School of Environment and Science, Griffith University, Queensland, 4111, Australia
| | - Iliana Bista
- LOEWE Centre for Translational Biodiversity Genomics, 60325, Frankfurt, Germany
- Senckenberg Research Institute, 60325, Frankfurt, Germany
- Naturalis Biodiversity Center, Darwinweg 2, 2333, Leiden, Netherlands
- Wellcome Sanger Institute, Tree of Life, Wellcome Genome Campus, Hinxton, CB10 1SA, UK
| | - Kerry Walsh
- Environment Agency, Horizon House, Deanery Road, Bristol, BS1 5AH, UK
| | - Bridget Emmett
- Centre for Ecology & Hydrology, Environment Centre Wales, Bangor, LL57 2UW, UK
| | - Rosetta Blackman
- Department of Aquatic Ecology, Eawag: Swiss Federal Institute of Aquatic Science and Technology, Überlandstrasse 133, CH-8600, Dübendorf, Switzerland
- Department of Evolutionary Biology and Environmental Studies, University of Zurich, Winterthurerstrasse 190, 8057, Zürich, Switzerland
- Evolutionary Biology Group (@EvoHull), Department of Biological and Marine Sciences, University of Hull (UoH), Cottingham Road, Hull, HU6 7RX, UK
| | - Florian Altermatt
- Department of Aquatic Ecology, Eawag: Swiss Federal Institute of Aquatic Science and Technology, Überlandstrasse 133, CH-8600, Dübendorf, Switzerland
- Department of Evolutionary Biology and Environmental Studies, University of Zurich, Winterthurerstrasse 190, 8057, Zürich, Switzerland
| | - Lori Lawson Handley
- Evolutionary Biology Group (@EvoHull), Department of Biological and Marine Sciences, University of Hull (UoH), Cottingham Road, Hull, HU6 7RX, UK
| | - Elvira Mächler
- Department of Aquatic Ecology, Eawag: Swiss Federal Institute of Aquatic Science and Technology, Überlandstrasse 133, CH-8600, Dübendorf, Switzerland
| | - Kristy Deiner
- Institute of Biogeochemistry and Pollutant Dynamics (IBP), ETH Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Holly M Bik
- Department of Marine Sciences and Institute of Bioinformatics, University of Georgia, Georgia, USA
| | - Gary Carvalho
- Molecular Ecology and Evolution at Bangor (MEEB), School of Biological Sciences, Bangor University, Bangor, Gwynedd, LL57 2UW, UK
| | - John Colbourne
- Environmental Genomics Group, School of Biosciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, B15 2TT, UK
| | - Bernard Jack Cosby
- Centre for Ecology & Hydrology, Environment Centre Wales, Bangor, LL57 2UW, UK
| | - Isabelle Durance
- Water Research Institute, Cardiff University, Cardiff, CF10 3AX, UK
| | - Simon Creer
- Molecular Ecology and Evolution at Bangor (MEEB), School of Biological Sciences, Bangor University, Bangor, Gwynedd, LL57 2UW, UK.
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4
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Mu Y, Zhang J, Yang J, Wu J, Zhang Y, Yu H, Zhang X. Enhancing amphibian biomonitoring through eDNA metabarcoding. Mol Ecol Resour 2024; 24:e13931. [PMID: 38345249 DOI: 10.1111/1755-0998.13931] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/08/2023] [Revised: 01/03/2024] [Accepted: 01/10/2024] [Indexed: 02/17/2024]
Abstract
Surveying biodiversity has taken a quantum leap with environmental DNA (eDNA) metabarcoding, an immensely powerful approach lauded for its efficiency, sensitivity, and non-invasiveness. This approach emerges as a game-changer for the elusive realm of endangered and rare species-think nocturnal, environmentally elusive amphibians. Here, we have established a framework for constructing a reliable metabarcoding pipeline for amphibians, covering primer design, performance evaluation, laboratory validation, and field validation processes. The Am250 primer, located on the mitochondrial 16S gene, was optimal for the eDNA monitoring of amphibians, which demonstrated higher taxonomic resolution, smaller species amplification bias, and more extraordinary detection ability compared to the other primers tested. Am250 primer exhibit an 83.8% species amplification rate and 75.4% accurate species identification rate for Chinese amphibians in the in silico PCR and successfully amplified all tested species of the standard samples in the in vitro assay. Furthermore, the field-based mesocosm experiment showed that DNA can still be detected by metabarcoding even days to weeks after organisms have been removed from the mesocosm. Moreover, field mesocosm findings indicate that eDNA metabarcoding primers exhibit different read abundances, which can affect the relative biomass of species. Thus, appropriate primers should be screened and evaluated by three experimental approaches: in silico PCR simulation, target DNA amplification, and mesocosm eDNA validation. The selection of a single primer set or multiple primers' combination should be based on the monitoring groups to improve the species detection rate and the credibility of results.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yawen Mu
- State Key Laboratory of Pollution Control & Resource, School of the Environment, Nanjing University, Nanjing, China
- Jiangsu Provincial Environmental Monitoring Center, Nanjing, China
| | - Jingwen Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Pollution Control & Resource, School of the Environment, Nanjing University, Nanjing, China
| | - Jianghua Yang
- State Key Laboratory of Pollution Control & Resource, School of the Environment, Nanjing University, Nanjing, China
- School of Marine Science and Engineering, Nanjing Normal University, Nanjing, China
| | - Jun Wu
- Nanjing Institute of Environmental Sciences, Ministry of Ecology and Environment of China, Nanjing, China
| | - Yong Zhang
- Jiangsu Provincial Environmental Monitoring Center, Nanjing, China
| | - Hongxia Yu
- State Key Laboratory of Pollution Control & Resource, School of the Environment, Nanjing University, Nanjing, China
| | - Xiaowei Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Pollution Control & Resource, School of the Environment, Nanjing University, Nanjing, China
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5
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Nakai M, Masumoto T, Asaeda T, Rahman M. Improving the efficiency of adaptive management methods in multiple fishways using environmental DNA. PLoS One 2024; 19:e0301197. [PMID: 38557776 PMCID: PMC10984549 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0301197] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/08/2023] [Accepted: 03/12/2024] [Indexed: 04/04/2024] Open
Abstract
Dams and weirs impede the continuity of rivers and transit of migratory fish. To overcome this obstacle, fishways are installed worldwide; however, management after installation is important. The Miyanaka Intake Dam has three fish ladders with different flow velocities and discharges and has been under adaptive management since 2012. Fish catch surveys, conducted as an adaptive management strategy, place a heavy burden on fish. Furthermore, a large number of investigators must be mobilized during the 30-day investigation period. Thus, a monitoring method using environmental DNA that exerts no burden on fish and requires only a few surveyors (to obtain water samples) and an in-house analyst was devised; however, its implementation in a fishway away from the point of analysis and with limited flow space and its effective water sampling frequency have not been reported. Therefore, in 2019, we started a trial aiming to evaluate the methods and application conditions of environmental DNA surveys for the continuous and long-term monitoring of various fish fauna upstream and downstream of the Miyanaka Intake Dam. To evaluate the fish fauna, the results of an environmental DNA survey (metabarcoding method) for 2019 to 2022 were compared to those of a catch survey in the fishway from 2012 to 2022. The results confirmed the use of environmental DNA surveys in evaluating the contribution of fishways to biodiversity under certain conditions and introduced a novel method for sample collection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Masahiko Nakai
- Japan International Consultants for Transportation Co., Ltd, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Taku Masumoto
- Energy Planning Department, East Japan Railway Company, Tokyo, Japan
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6
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Zhang J, Huang L, Wang Y. Changes in the level of biofilm development significantly affect the persistence of environmental DNA in flowing water. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2024; 917:170162. [PMID: 38244634 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2024.170162] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/12/2023] [Revised: 12/27/2023] [Accepted: 01/12/2024] [Indexed: 01/22/2024]
Abstract
As one of the powerful tools of species biomonitoring, the utilization of environmental DNA (eDNA) technology is progressively expanding in both scope and frequency within the field of ecology. Nonetheless, the growing dissemination of this technology has brought to light a multitude of intricate issues. The complex effects of environmental factors on the persistence of eDNA in water have brought many challenges to the interpretation of eDNA information. In this study, the primary objective was to examine how variations in the presence and development of biofilms impact the persistence of grass carp eDNA under different sediment types and flow conditions. This investigation encompassed the processes of eDNA removal and resuspension in water, shedding light on the complex interactions involved. The findings reveal that with an elevated biofilm development level, the total removal rate of eDNA gradually rose, resulting in a corresponding decrease in its residence time within the mesocosms. The influence of biofilms on the persistence of grass carp eDNA is more pronounced under flowing water conditions. However, changes in bottom sediment types did not significantly interact with biofilms. Lastly, in treatments involving alternating flow conditions between flowing and still water, significant resuspension of grass carp eDNA was not observed due to interference from multiple factors, including the effect of biofilms. Our study offers preliminary insights into the biofilm-mediated mechanisms of aquatic eDNA removal, emphasizing the need for careful consideration of environmental factors in the practical application of eDNA technology for biomonitoring in natural aquatic environments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jianmin Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Hydraulics and Mountain River Engineering, Sichuan University, First Ring Road 24#, Chengdu 610065, People's Republic of China.
| | - Lei Huang
- State Key Laboratory of Hydraulics and Mountain River Engineering, Sichuan University, First Ring Road 24#, Chengdu 610065, People's Republic of China.
| | - Yurong Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Hydraulics and Mountain River Engineering, Sichuan University, First Ring Road 24#, Chengdu 610065, People's Republic of China.
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7
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Holmes AE, Baerwald MR, Rodzen J, Schreier BM, Mahardja B, Finger AJ. Evaluating environmental DNA detection of a rare fish in turbid water using field and experimental approaches. PeerJ 2024; 12:e16453. [PMID: 38188170 PMCID: PMC10768661 DOI: 10.7717/peerj.16453] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/22/2022] [Accepted: 10/23/2023] [Indexed: 01/09/2024] Open
Abstract
Detection sensitivity of aquatic species using environmental DNA (eDNA) generally decreases in turbid water but is poorly characterized. In this study, eDNA detection targeted delta smelt (Hypomesus transpacificus), a critically endangered estuarine fish associated with turbid water. eDNA sampling in the field was first paired with a trawl survey. Species-specific detection using a Taqman qPCR assay showed concordance between the methods, but a weak eDNA signal. Informed by the results of field sampling, an experiment was designed to assess how turbidity and filtration methods influence detection of a rare target. Water from non-turbid (5 NTU) and turbid (50 NTU) estuarine sites was spiked with small volumes (0.5 and 1 mL) of water from a delta smelt tank to generate low eDNA concentrations. Samples were filtered using four filter types: cartridge filters (pore size 0.45 μm) and 47 mm filters (glass fiber, pore size 1.6 μm and polycarbonate, pore sizes 5 and 10 μm). Prefiltration was also tested as an addition to the filtration protocol for turbid water samples. eDNA copy numbers were analyzed using a censored data method for qPCR data. The assay limits and lack of PCR inhibition indicated an optimized assay. Glass fiber filters yielded the highest detection rates and eDNA copies in non-turbid and turbid water. Prefiltration improved detection in turbid water only when used with cartridge and polycarbonate filters. Statistical analysis identified turbidity as a significant effect on detection probability and eDNA copies detected; filter type and an interaction between filter type and prefilter were significant effects on eDNA copies detected, suggesting that particulate-filter interactions can affect detection sensitivity. Pilot experiments and transparent criteria for positive detection could improve eDNA surveys of rare species in turbid environments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ann E. Holmes
- Genomic Variation Laboratory, University of California, Davis, Davis, California, United States
- Graduate Group in Ecology, University of California, Davis, Davis, California, United States
| | - Melinda R. Baerwald
- California Department of Water Resources, West Sacramento, California, United States
| | - Jeff Rodzen
- Genetics Research Laboratory, California Department of Fish and Wildlife, Sacramento, California, United States
| | - Brian M. Schreier
- California Department of Water Resources, West Sacramento, California, United States
| | - Brian Mahardja
- Bureau of Reclamation, US Department of the Interior, Sacramento, California, United States
| | - Amanda J. Finger
- Genomic Variation Laboratory, University of California, Davis, Davis, California, United States
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Xia Z, Gu J, Wen Y, Cao X, Gao Y, Li S, Haffner GD, MacIsaac HJ, Zhan A. eDNA-based detection reveals invasion risks of a biofouling bivalve in the world's largest water diversion project. ECOLOGICAL APPLICATIONS : A PUBLICATION OF THE ECOLOGICAL SOCIETY OF AMERICA 2024; 34:e2826. [PMID: 36840509 DOI: 10.1002/eap.2826] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/12/2022] [Revised: 12/27/2022] [Accepted: 01/10/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
Environmental DNA (eDNA) has increasingly been used to detect rare species (e.g., newly introduced nonindigenous species) in both terrestrial and aquatic ecosystems, often with distinct advantages over traditional methods. However, whether water eDNA signals can be used to inform invasion risks remains debatable owing to inherent uncertainties associated with the methods used and the varying conditions among study systems. Here, we sampled eDNA from canals of the central route of the South-to-North Water Diversion Project (hereafter SNWDP) in China to investigate eDNA distribution and efficacy to inform invasion risks in a unique lotic system. We first conducted a total of 16 monthly surveys in this system (two sites in the source reservoir and four sites in the main canal) to test if eDNA could be applied to detect an invasive, biofouling bivalve, the golden mussel Limnoperna fortunei. Second, we initiated a one-time survey in a sub-canal of the SNWDP using refined sampling (12 sites in ~22 km canal) and considered a few environmental predictors. We found that detection of target eDNA in the main canal was achieved up to 1100 km from the putative source population but was restricted to the warmer months (May-November). Detection probability exhibited a significant positive relationship with average daily minimum air temperature and with water temperature, consistent with the expected spawning season. eDNA concentration in the main canal generally fluctuated across months and sites and was generally higher in warmer months. Golden mussel eDNA concentration in the sub-canal decreased significantly with distance from the source and with increasing water temperature and became almost undetectable at ~22 km distance. Given the enormity of the SNWDP, golden mussels may eventually expand their distribution in the main canal, with established "bridgehead" populations facilitating further spread. Our findings suggest an elevated invasion risk of golden mussels in the SNWDP in warm months, highlighting the critical period for spread and, possibly, management.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhiqiang Xia
- Institute of Environmental and Health Sciences, China Jiliang University, Hangzhou, China
- College of Quality and Safety Engineering, China Jiliang University, Hangzhou, China
- Great Lakes Institute for Environmental Research, University of Windsor, Windsor, Ontario, Canada
| | - Junnong Gu
- Water Quality Monitoring Center of Beijing Waterworks Group Company Limited, Beijing, China
| | - Ying Wen
- Water Quality Monitoring Center of Beijing Waterworks Group Company Limited, Beijing, China
| | - Xinkai Cao
- Water Quality Monitoring Center of Beijing Waterworks Group Company Limited, Beijing, China
| | - Yangchun Gao
- Guangdong Key Laboratory of Animal Conservation and Resource Utilization, Guangdong Public Laboratory of Wild Animal Conservation and Utilization, Institute of Zoology, Guangdong Academy of Science, Guangzhou, China
| | - Shiguo Li
- Research Center for Eco-Environmental Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - G Douglas Haffner
- Great Lakes Institute for Environmental Research, University of Windsor, Windsor, Ontario, Canada
| | - Hugh J MacIsaac
- Great Lakes Institute for Environmental Research, University of Windsor, Windsor, Ontario, Canada
- School of Ecology and Environmental Science, Yunnan University, Kunming, China
| | - Aibin Zhan
- Research Center for Eco-Environmental Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
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9
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Qian MM, Wang ZY, Zhou Q, Wang J, Shao Y, Qiao Q, Fan JT, Yan ZG. Environmental DNA unveiling the fish community structure and diversity features in the Yangtze River basin. ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH 2023; 239:117198. [PMID: 37776943 DOI: 10.1016/j.envres.2023.117198] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/22/2023] [Revised: 09/07/2023] [Accepted: 09/14/2023] [Indexed: 10/02/2023]
Abstract
Fish, as top predators in aquatic ecosystems, play an important role in maintaining the structure and functioning of these ecosystems, making their diversity a topic of great interest. This study focused on the Yangtze River Basin to investigate the fish community structure and diversity using environmental DNA (eDNA) technology. The results showed that a total of 71616 fish operational taxonomic units (OTUs) and 90 fish belonging to 23 families were detected, with the Cyprinidae family being the dominant group, followed by the Cobitidae, Amblycipitidae, etc. Compared to historical traditional morphological fish surveys, the quantity of fish detected using eDNA was relatively low, but the overall distribution pattern of fish communities was generally consistent. The highest fish Shannon-Wiener diversity index in the Yangtze River Basin sites reaches 2.60 with an average value of 1.25. The fish diversity index was higher in the downstream compared to the middle and upstream regions, and there were significant differences among different sampling sites. Significant environmental factors influencing α-diversity included chlorophyll-a, chemical oxygen demand, dissolved oxygen, total nitrogen, and elevation. Non-metric multidimensional scaling (NMDS) analysis revealed significant differences in fish community composition between the upstream and middle/lower reaches of the Yangtze River, while the composition of fish communities in the middle and lower reaches was more similar. Redundancy analysis (RDA) indicated that total organic carbon (TOC) was positively correlated with fish community distribution in the upstream, while water temperature and NO3-N were negatively correlated with fish distribution in the upstream. NH3-N and CODMn were negatively correlated with fish distribution in the middle and downstream regions, indicating a relatively severe water pollution in these areas. Additionally, fish communities in the Yangtze River displayed a typical distance decay pattern.
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Affiliation(s)
- Miao-Miao Qian
- State Key Laboratory of Environmental Criteria and Risk Assessment, Chinese Research Academy of Environmental Sciences, Beijing 100012, PR China
| | - Zi-Ye Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Environmental Criteria and Risk Assessment, Chinese Research Academy of Environmental Sciences, Beijing 100012, PR China
| | - Quan Zhou
- State Key Laboratory of Environmental Criteria and Risk Assessment, Chinese Research Academy of Environmental Sciences, Beijing 100012, PR China
| | - Jie Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Environmental Criteria and Risk Assessment, Chinese Research Academy of Environmental Sciences, Beijing 100012, PR China
| | - Yun Shao
- State Key Laboratory of Environmental Criteria and Risk Assessment, Chinese Research Academy of Environmental Sciences, Beijing 100012, PR China
| | - Qiao Qiao
- State Key Laboratory of Environmental Criteria and Risk Assessment, Chinese Research Academy of Environmental Sciences, Beijing 100012, PR China
| | - Jun-Tao Fan
- State Key Laboratory of Environmental Criteria and Risk Assessment, Chinese Research Academy of Environmental Sciences, Beijing 100012, PR China
| | - Zhen-Guang Yan
- State Key Laboratory of Environmental Criteria and Risk Assessment, Chinese Research Academy of Environmental Sciences, Beijing 100012, PR China.
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10
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Rees HC, Cousins ME, Baker CA, Maddison BC. A qPCR assay for the rapid and specific detection of Shining ram's-horn snail (Segmentina nitida) eDNA from Stodmarsh National Nature Reserve, UK. PLoS One 2023; 18:e0288267. [PMID: 37967121 PMCID: PMC10651049 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0288267] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/23/2023] [Accepted: 06/22/2023] [Indexed: 11/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Segmentina nitida Müller 1774 is a freshwater snail which was formerly widespread throughout England and south Wales. Since the 1840s it has seen a rapid decline in its range which has been attributed to deteriorating water quality due to nutrient enrichment, lowering of water tables and over-management of the ditches in which it resides. S. nitida has therefore been identified as a UK Biodiversity Action Plan (UKBAP) priority species which recommends further research for its conservation. Here we have developed a Taqman based qPCR eDNA assay for the detection of S. nitida at the Stodmarsh National Nature Reserve and compared the results with a manual survey of the ditches at this location. 32 ditches were surveyed in November 2020 (22 at Stodmarsh) and February 2021 (10 outside the known range of S.nitida). Our eDNA analysis exhibited an observed percentage agreement of 84% with a kappa coefficient of agreement between manual and eDNA surveys of 0.56 (95% CI 0.22 to 0.92). Three ditches determined to be negative for S. nitida by eDNA analysis were manual survey positive, and a further two ditches that were negative by manual survey were positive by eDNA analysis revealing the potential for improved overall detection rates using a combination of manual and eDNA methodologies. eDNA analysis could therefore augment manual survey techniques for S. nitida as a relatively quick and inexpensive tool for collecting presence and distribution data that could be used to inform manual surveys and management of ditches.
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Affiliation(s)
- Helen C. Rees
- ADAS Biotechnology, Beeston, Nottingham, United Kingdom
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11
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Littlefair JE, Hleap JS, Palace V, Rennie MD, Paterson MJ, Cristescu ME. Freshwater connectivity transforms spatially integrated signals of biodiversity. Proc Biol Sci 2023; 290:20230841. [PMID: 37700653 PMCID: PMC10498028 DOI: 10.1098/rspb.2023.0841] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/09/2023] [Accepted: 08/08/2023] [Indexed: 09/14/2023] Open
Abstract
Aquatic ecosystems offer a continuum of water flow from headwater streams to inland lakes and coastal marine systems. This spatial connectivity influences the structure, function and dynamics of aquatic communities, which are among the most threatened and degraded on the Earth. Here, we determine the spatial resolution of environmental DNA (eDNA) in dendritic freshwater networks, which we use as a model for connected metacommunities. Our intensive sampling campaign comprised over 420 eDNA samples across 21 connected lakes, allowing us to analyse detections at a variety of scales, from different habitats within a lake to entire lake networks. We found strong signals of within-lake variation in eDNA distribution reflective of typical habitat use by both fish and zooplankton. Most importantly, we also found that connecting channels between lakes resulted in an accumulation of downstream eDNA detections in lakes with a higher number of inflows, and as networks increased in length. Environmental DNA achieves biodiversity surveys in these habitats in a high-throughput, spatially integrated way. These findings have profound implications for the interpretation of eDNA detections in aquatic ecosystems in global-scale biodiversity monitoring observations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joanne E. Littlefair
- Department of Biology, McGill University, 1205 Docteur Penfield, Stewart Biology Building, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
- School of Biological and Behavioural Sciences, Queen Mary University of London, Fogg Building, Mile End Road, London, UK
| | - José S. Hleap
- Department of Biology, McGill University, 1205 Docteur Penfield, Stewart Biology Building, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
- SHARCNET, University of Guelph, Guelph, Ontario, Canada
| | - Vince Palace
- IISD-Experimental Lakes Area, 111 Lombard Avenue Suite 325, Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada
| | - Michael D. Rennie
- IISD-Experimental Lakes Area, 111 Lombard Avenue Suite 325, Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada
- Department of Biology, Lakehead University, 955 Oliver Road, Thunder Bay, Ontario, Canada
| | - Michael J. Paterson
- IISD-Experimental Lakes Area, 111 Lombard Avenue Suite 325, Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada
| | - Melania E. Cristescu
- Department of Biology, McGill University, 1205 Docteur Penfield, Stewart Biology Building, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
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12
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Zhang M, Zou Y, Xiao S, Hou J. Environmental DNA metabarcoding serves as a promising method for aquatic species monitoring and management: A review focused on its workflow, applications, challenges and prospects. MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2023; 194:115430. [PMID: 37647798 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2023.115430] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/23/2023] [Revised: 08/10/2023] [Accepted: 08/15/2023] [Indexed: 09/01/2023]
Abstract
Marine and freshwater biodiversity is under threat from both natural and manmade causes. Biological monitoring is currently a top priority for biodiversity protection. Given present limitations, traditional biological monitoring methods may not achieve the proposed monitoring aims. Environmental DNA metabarcoding technology reflects species information by capturing and extracting DNA from environmental samples, using molecular biology techniques to sequence and analyze the DNA, and comparing the obtained information with existing reference libraries to obtain species identification. However, its practical application has highlighted several limitations. This paper summarizes the main steps in the environmental application of eDNA metabarcoding technology in aquatic ecosystems, including the discovery of unknown species, the detection of invasive species, and evaluations of biodiversity. At present, with the rapid development of big data and artificial intelligence, certain advanced technologies and devices can be combined with environmental DNA metabarcoding technology to promote further development of aquatic species monitoring and management.
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Affiliation(s)
- Miaolian Zhang
- MOE Key Laboratory of Resources and Environmental Systems Optimization, College of Environmental Science and Engineering, North China Electric Power University, Beijing 102206, China
| | - Yingtong Zou
- State Key Joint Laboratory of Environment Simulation and Pollution Control, Research Center for Eco-Environmental Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100085, China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Shan Xiao
- MOE Key Laboratory of Resources and Environmental Systems Optimization, College of Environmental Science and Engineering, North China Electric Power University, Beijing 102206, China
| | - Jing Hou
- MOE Key Laboratory of Resources and Environmental Systems Optimization, College of Environmental Science and Engineering, North China Electric Power University, Beijing 102206, China.
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13
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Riaz M, Warren D, Wittwer C, Cocchiararo B, Hundertmark I, Reiners TE, Klimpel S, Pfenninger M, Khaliq I, Nowak C. Using eDNA to understand predator-prey interactions influenced by invasive species. Oecologia 2023; 202:757-767. [PMID: 37594600 PMCID: PMC10474997 DOI: 10.1007/s00442-023-05434-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2022] [Accepted: 08/03/2023] [Indexed: 08/19/2023]
Abstract
Invasive predatory species may alter population dynamic processes of their prey and impact biological communities and ecosystem processes. Revealing biotic interactions, however, including the relationship between predator and prey, is a difficult task, in particular for species that are hard to monitor. Here, we present a case study that documents the utility of environmental DNA analysis (eDNA) to assess predator-prey interactions between two invasive fishes (Lepomis gibbosus, Pseudorasbora parva) and two potential amphibian prey species, (Triturus cristatus, Pelobates fuscus). We used species-specific TaqMan assays for quantitative assessment of eDNA concentrations from water samples collected from 89 sites across 31 ponds during three consecutive months from a local amphibian hotspot in Germany. We found a negative relationship between eDNA concentrations of the predators (fishes) and prey (amphibians) using Monte-Carlo tests. Our study highlights the potential of eDNA application to reveal predator-prey interactions and confirms the hypothesis that the observed local declines of amphibian species may be at least partly caused by recently introduced invasive fishes. Our findings have important consequences for local conservation management and highlight the usefulness of eDNA approaches to assess ecological interactions and guide targeted conservation action.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Riaz
- Conservation Genetics Section, Senckenberg Research Institute and Natural History Museum, 63571, Frankfurt, Gelnhausen, Germany.
- LOEWE Centre for Translational Biodiversity Genomics (LOEWE-TBG), Senckenberganlage 25, 60325, Frankfurt Am Main, Germany.
- Faculty of Biological Sciences, Institute for Ecology, Evolution and Diversity, Goethe University, Max-Von-Laue-Straße 9, 60438, Frankfurt Am Main, Germany.
| | - Dan Warren
- Biodiversity and Biocomplexity Unit, Okinawa Institute of Science and Technology Graduate University, Okinawa, Japan
- Senckenberg Biodiversity and Climate Research Centre (BiK-F), Senckenberganlage 25, 60325, Frankfurt Am Main, Germany
| | - Claudia Wittwer
- Conservation Genetics Section, Senckenberg Research Institute and Natural History Museum, 63571, Frankfurt, Gelnhausen, Germany
- LOEWE Centre for Translational Biodiversity Genomics (LOEWE-TBG), Senckenberganlage 25, 60325, Frankfurt Am Main, Germany
- Faculty of Biological Sciences, Institute for Ecology, Evolution and Diversity, Goethe University, Max-Von-Laue-Straße 9, 60438, Frankfurt Am Main, Germany
| | - Berardino Cocchiararo
- Conservation Genetics Section, Senckenberg Research Institute and Natural History Museum, 63571, Frankfurt, Gelnhausen, Germany
- LOEWE Centre for Translational Biodiversity Genomics (LOEWE-TBG), Senckenberganlage 25, 60325, Frankfurt Am Main, Germany
| | - Inga Hundertmark
- Hessische Gesellschaft Für Ornithologie Und Naturschutz (HGON E. V.), Lindenstrasse 5, 61209, Echzell, Germany
| | - Tobias Erik Reiners
- Conservation Genetics Section, Senckenberg Research Institute and Natural History Museum, 63571, Frankfurt, Gelnhausen, Germany
- Hessische Gesellschaft Für Ornithologie Und Naturschutz (HGON E. V.), Lindenstrasse 5, 61209, Echzell, Germany
| | - Sven Klimpel
- LOEWE Centre for Translational Biodiversity Genomics (LOEWE-TBG), Senckenberganlage 25, 60325, Frankfurt Am Main, Germany
- Faculty of Biological Sciences, Institute for Ecology, Evolution and Diversity, Goethe University, Max-Von-Laue-Straße 9, 60438, Frankfurt Am Main, Germany
- Senckenberg Biodiversity and Climate Research Centre (BiK-F), Senckenberganlage 25, 60325, Frankfurt Am Main, Germany
| | - Markus Pfenninger
- LOEWE Centre for Translational Biodiversity Genomics (LOEWE-TBG), Senckenberganlage 25, 60325, Frankfurt Am Main, Germany
- Senckenberg Biodiversity and Climate Research Centre (BiK-F), Senckenberganlage 25, 60325, Frankfurt Am Main, Germany
- Institute for Molecular and Organismic Evolution, Johannes Gutenberg University, Johann-Joachim-Becher-Weg 7, 55128, Mainz, Germany
| | - Imran Khaliq
- Department of Education, Punjab, Pakistan
- Department of Aquatic Ecology Eawag (Swiss Federal Institute of Aquatic Science and Technology) Überlandstrasse 133, 8600, Dübendorf, Switzerland
- Snow and Landscape Research (WSL), Swiss Federal Institute for Forest, Flüelastr. 11, 7260, Davos Dorf, Switzerland
| | - Carsten Nowak
- Conservation Genetics Section, Senckenberg Research Institute and Natural History Museum, 63571, Frankfurt, Gelnhausen, Germany
- LOEWE Centre for Translational Biodiversity Genomics (LOEWE-TBG), Senckenberganlage 25, 60325, Frankfurt Am Main, Germany
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14
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Adcock ZC, Adcock ME, Forstner MRJ. Development and validation of an environmental DNA assay to detect federally threatened groundwater salamanders in central Texas. PLoS One 2023; 18:e0288282. [PMID: 37428788 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0288282] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/21/2022] [Accepted: 06/23/2023] [Indexed: 07/12/2023] Open
Abstract
The molecular detection of DNA fragments that are shed into the environment (eDNA) has become an increasingly applied tool used to inventory biological communities and to perform targeted species surveys. This method is particularly useful in habitats where it is difficult or not practical to visually detect or trap the target organisms. Central Texas Eurycea salamanders inhabit both surface and subterranean aquatic environments. Subterranean surveys are challenging or infeasible, and the detection of salamander eDNA in water samples is an appealing survey technique for these situations. Here, we develop and validate an eDNA assay using quantitative PCR for E. chisholmensis, E. naufragia, and E. tonkawae. These three species are federally threatened and constitute the Septentriomolge clade that occurs in the northern segment of the Edwards Aquifer. First, we validated the specificity of the assay in silico and with DNA extracted from tissue samples of both target Septentriomolge and non-target amphibians that overlap in distribution. Then, we evaluated the sensitivity of the assay in two controls, one with salamander-positive water and one at field sites known to be occupied by Septentriomolge. For the salamander-positive control, the estimated probability of eDNA occurrence (ψ) was 0.981 (SE = 0.019), and the estimated probability of detecting eDNA in a qPCR replicate (p) was 0.981 (SE = 0.011). For the field control, the estimated probability of eDNA occurring at a site (ψ) was 0.938 (95% CRI: 0.714-0.998). The estimated probability of collecting eDNA in a water sample (θ) was positively correlated with salamander relative density and ranged from 0.371 (95% CRI: 0.201-0.561) to 0.999 (95% CRI: 0.850- > 0.999) among sampled sites. Therefore, sites with low salamander density require more water samples for eDNA evaluation, and we determined that our site with the lowest estimated θ would require seven water samples for the cumulative collection probability to exceed 0.95. The estimated probability of detecting eDNA in a qPCR replicate (p) was 0.882 (95% CRI: 0.807-0.936), and our assay required two qPCR replicates for the cumulative detection probability to exceed 0.95. In complementary visual encounter surveys, the estimated probability of salamanders occurring at a known-occupied site was 0.905 (SE = 0.096), and the estimated probability of detecting salamanders in a visual encounter survey was 0.925 (SE = 0.052). We additionally discuss future research needed to refine this method and understand its limitations before practical application and incorporation into formal survey protocols for these taxa.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zachary C Adcock
- Department of Biology, Texas State University, San Marcos, Texas, United States of America
- Cambrian Environmental, Austin, Texas, United States of America
| | - Michelle E Adcock
- Department of Biology, Texas State University, San Marcos, Texas, United States of America
| | - Michael R J Forstner
- Department of Biology, Texas State University, San Marcos, Texas, United States of America
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15
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Van Driessche C, Everts T, Neyrinck S, Halfmaerten D, Haegeman A, Ruttink T, Bonte D, Brys R. Using environmental DNA metabarcoding to monitor fish communities in small rivers and large brooks: Insights on the spatial scale of information. ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH 2023; 228:115857. [PMID: 37059322 DOI: 10.1016/j.envres.2023.115857] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/15/2023] [Revised: 03/28/2023] [Accepted: 04/04/2023] [Indexed: 05/16/2023]
Abstract
Monitoring fish communities is central to the evaluation of ecological health of rivers. Both presence/absence of fish species and their relative quantity in local fish assemblages are crucial parameters to measure. Fish communities in lotic systems are traditionally monitored via electrofishing, characterized by a known limited efficiency and high survey costs. Analysis of environmental DNA could serve as a non-destructive alternative for detection and quantification of lotic fish communities, but this approach still requires further insights in practical sampling schemes incorporating transport and dilution of the eDNA particles; optimization of predictive power and quality assurance of the molecular detection method. Via a controlled cage experiment, we aim to extend the knowledge on streamreach of eDNA in small rivers and large brooks, as laid out in the European Water Framework Directive's water typology. Using a high and low source biomass in two river transects of a species-poor river characterized by contrasting river discharge rates, we found strong and significant correlations between the eDNA relative species abundances and the relative biomass per species in the cage community. Despite a decreasing correlation over distance, the underlying community composition remained stable from 25 to 300 m, or up to 1 km downstream of the eDNA source, depending on the river discharge rate. Such decrease in similarity between relative source biomass and the corresponding eDNA-based community profile with increasing distance downstream from the source, might be attributed to variation in species-specific eDNA persistence. Our findings offer crucial insights on eDNA behaviour and characterization of riverine fish communities. We conclude that water sampled from a relatively small river offers an adequate eDNA snapshot of the total fish community in the 300-1000 m upstream transect. The potential application for other river systems is further discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Charlotte Van Driessche
- Research Institute for Nature and Forest (INBO), Genetic Diversity, Geraardsbergen, Belgium; Ghent University, Department of Biology, Terrestrial Ecology Unit, Ghent, Belgium.
| | - Teun Everts
- Research Institute for Nature and Forest (INBO), Genetic Diversity, Geraardsbergen, Belgium; KU Leuven, Department of Biology, Plant Conservation and Population Biology, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Sabrina Neyrinck
- Research Institute for Nature and Forest (INBO), Genetic Diversity, Geraardsbergen, Belgium
| | - David Halfmaerten
- Research Institute for Nature and Forest (INBO), Genetic Diversity, Geraardsbergen, Belgium
| | - Annelies Haegeman
- Flanders Research Institute for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food (ILVO), Plant Sciences Unit, Melle, Belgium
| | - Tom Ruttink
- Flanders Research Institute for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food (ILVO), Plant Sciences Unit, Melle, Belgium; Department of Plant Biotechnology and Bioinformatics, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Dries Bonte
- Ghent University, Department of Biology, Terrestrial Ecology Unit, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Rein Brys
- Research Institute for Nature and Forest (INBO), Genetic Diversity, Geraardsbergen, Belgium
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16
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Jo TS. Utilizing the state of environmental DNA (eDNA) to incorporate time-scale information into eDNA analysis. Proc Biol Sci 2023; 290:20230979. [PMID: 37253423 PMCID: PMC10229230 DOI: 10.1098/rspb.2023.0979] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/01/2023] [Accepted: 05/10/2023] [Indexed: 06/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Environmental DNA (eDNA) analysis allows cost-effective and non-destructive biomonitoring with a high detection sensitivity in terrestrial and aquatic environments. However, the eDNA results can sometimes include false-positive inferences of target organisms owing to the detection of aged eDNA that has long since been released from the individual and is more likely to be detected at a site further away from its source. In order to address the issue, this manuscript focuses on the state of eDNA, proposing new methodologies to estimate the age of eDNA: (1) DNA damage rate, (2) eDNA particle size distribution, and (3) viable cell-derived eDNA. In addition, the manuscript also focuses on the shorter persistence of environmental RNA (eRNA) compared with eDNA, highlighting the application of eRNA and environmental nucleic acid ratio for assessing the age of the genetic materials in water. Although substantial further research is essential to support the feasibility of these methodologies, incorporating time-scale information into eDNA analysis would update current eDNA analysis, improve the accuracy and reliability of eDNA-based monitoring, and further refine eDNA analysis as a useful monitoring tool in ecology, fisheries and various environmental sciences.
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Affiliation(s)
- Toshiaki S. Jo
- Research Fellow of Japan Society for the Promotion of Science, 5-3-1 Kojimachi, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo 102-0083, Japan
- Ryukoku Center for Biodiversity Science, Ryukoku University, 1-5, Yokotani, Oe-cho, Seta, Otsu City, Shiga 520-2194, Japan
- Faculty of Advanced Science and Technology, Ryukoku University, 1-5, Yokotani, Oe-cho, Seta, Otsu City, Shiga 520-2194, Japan
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17
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Zhang S, Bi Y, Zhao J, Yao M. To the north: eDNA tracing of the seasonal and spatial dynamics of fish assemblages along the world's largest water diversion project. JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT 2023; 331:117217. [PMID: 36621023 DOI: 10.1016/j.jenvman.2023.117217] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2022] [Revised: 12/21/2022] [Accepted: 01/02/2023] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
Extensive water diversion projects that have been increasingly installed worldwide transport essential water resources as well as a large number of biota. However, studies of the dynamic processes of such transport have been limited. The South-to-North Water Diversion Project of China is the largest manmade water diversion system ever constructed. Here, in a year-long project, we used environmental DNA (eDNA) metabarcoding to assess fish biodiversity and assemblage composition along the Project's 1277-km main canal, while also investigating the temporal, spatial, and functional trait drivers of changes in the fish assemblages. Together, 45 fish taxa were detected, with substantial compositional variations between seasons. The number of detected species typically dropped upon entering the canal but remained relatively constant along the canal's length. Spatial variations in fish assemblages were generally dominated by the turnover component over nestedness, and a positive spatial autocorrelation of qualitative assemblage composition was detected within 80 km in all seasons. Furthermore, several functional traits, such as smaller body size, invertivorous diet, rheophilic living, and lithophilic and demersal spawning, were positive predictors of fish presence along the length of the canal and they may boost species chances of introduction to the recipient areas. Our results provide crucial information for ecological management of diversion projects and have key implications for modelling and predicting foreign species invasion through water transfers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shan Zhang
- School of Life Sciences, Peking University, Beijing, 100871, China; Institute of Ecology, College of Urban and Environmental Sciences, Peking University, Beijing, 100871, China
| | - Yonghong Bi
- State Key Laboratory of Freshwater Ecology and Biotechnology, Institute of Hydrobiology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wuhan, 430072, China
| | - Jindong Zhao
- School of Life Sciences, Peking University, Beijing, 100871, China; Institute of Ecology, College of Urban and Environmental Sciences, Peking University, Beijing, 100871, China
| | - Meng Yao
- School of Life Sciences, Peking University, Beijing, 100871, China; Institute of Ecology, College of Urban and Environmental Sciences, Peking University, Beijing, 100871, China.
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Aunins AA, Mueller SJ, Fike JA, Cornman RS. Assessing arthropod diversity metrics derived from stream environmental DNA: spatiotemporal variation and paired comparisons with manual sampling. PeerJ 2023; 11:e15163. [PMID: 37020852 PMCID: PMC10069422 DOI: 10.7717/peerj.15163] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2022] [Accepted: 03/13/2023] [Indexed: 04/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Background
Benthic invertebrate (BI) surveys have been widely used to characterize freshwater environmental quality but can be challenging to implement at desired spatial scales and frequency. Environmental DNA (eDNA) allows an alternative BI survey approach, one that can potentially be implemented more rapidly and cheaply than traditional methods.
Methods
We evaluated eDNA analogs of BI metrics in the Potomac River watershed of the eastern United States. We first compared arthropod diversity detected with primers targeting mitochondrial 16S (mt16S) and cytochrome c oxidase 1 (cox1 or COI) loci to that detected by manual surveys conducted in parallel. We then evaluated spatial and temporal variation in arthropod diversity metrics with repeated sampling in three focal parks. We also investigated technical factors such as filter type used to capture eDNA and PCR inhibition treatment.
Results
Our results indicate that genus-level assessment of eDNA compositions is achievable at both loci with modest technical noise, although database gaps remain substantial at mt16S for regional taxa. While the specific taxa identified by eDNA did not strongly overlap with paired manual surveys, some metrics derived from eDNA compositions were rank-correlated with previously derived biological indices of environmental quality. Repeated sampling revealed statistical differences between high- and low-quality sites based on taxonomic diversity, functional diversity, and tolerance scores weighted by taxon proportions in transformed counts. We conclude that eDNA compositions are efficient and informative of stream condition. Further development and validation of scoring schemes analogous to commonly used biological indices should allow increased application of the approach to management needs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aaron A. Aunins
- Eastern Ecological Research Center, U.S. Geological Survey, Kearneysville, West Virginia, United States
| | - Sara J. Mueller
- Wildlife and Fisheries Sciences Program, The Pennsylvania State College, State College, Pennsylvania, United States
| | - Jennifer A. Fike
- Fort Collins Science Center, U.S. Geological Survey, Fort Collins, Colorado, United States
| | - Robert S. Cornman
- Fort Collins Science Center, U.S. Geological Survey, Fort Collins, Colorado, United States
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Yoshitake K, Yanagisawa K, Sugimoto Y, Nakamura H, Mizusawa N, Miya M, Hamasaki K, Kobayashi T, Watabe S, Nishikiori K, Asakawa S. Pilot study of a comprehensive resource estimation method from environmental DNA using universal D-loop amplification primers. Funct Integr Genomics 2023; 23:96. [PMID: 36947319 PMCID: PMC10033627 DOI: 10.1007/s10142-023-01013-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2022] [Revised: 03/03/2023] [Accepted: 03/06/2023] [Indexed: 03/23/2023]
Abstract
Many studies have investigated the ability of environmental DNA (eDNA) to identify the species. However, when individual species are to be identified, accurate estimation of their abundance using traditional eDNA analyses is still difficult. We previously developed a novel analytical method called HaCeD-Seq (haplotype count from eDNA by sequencing), which focuses on the mitochondrial D-loop sequence for eels and tuna. In this study, universal D-loop primers were designed to enable the comprehensive detection of multiple fish species by a single sequence. To sequence the full-length D-loop with high accuracy, we performed nanopore sequencing with unique molecular identifiers (UMI). In addition, to determine the D-loop reference sequence, whole genome sequencing was performed with thin coverage, and complete mitochondrial genomes were determined. We developed a UMI-based Nanopore D-loop sequencing analysis pipeline and released it as open-source software. We detected 5 out of 15 species (33%) and 10 haplotypes out of 35 individuals (29%) among the detected species. This study demonstrates the possibility of comprehensively obtaining information related to population size from eDNA. In the future, this method can be used to improve the accuracy of fish resource estimation, which is currently highly dependent on fishing catches.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kazutoshi Yoshitake
- Department of Aquatic Bioscience, Graduate School of Agricultural and Life Sciences, The University of Tokyo, 1-1-1 Yayoi, Bunkyo-ku, 113-8657, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Kyohei Yanagisawa
- Department of Aquatic Bioscience, Graduate School of Agricultural and Life Sciences, The University of Tokyo, 1-1-1 Yayoi, Bunkyo-ku, 113-8657, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Yuma Sugimoto
- Tokyo Sea Life Park, 6-2-3 Rinkai-cho, Edogawa-ku, 134-8587, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Hiroshi Nakamura
- Tokyo Sea Life Park, 6-2-3 Rinkai-cho, Edogawa-ku, 134-8587, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Nanami Mizusawa
- School of Marine Biosciences, Kitasato University, 1-15-1 Kitasato, Minami-ku, Kanagawa, 252-0373, Sagamihara, Japan
| | - Masaki Miya
- Department of Collection Management, Natural History Museum and Institute, Chiba, 260-8682, Japan
| | - Koji Hamasaki
- Department of Marine Ecosystem Science, Atmosphere and Ocean Research Institute, The University of Tokyo, 5-1-5 Kashiwanoha, Kashiwa, Chiba, 277-8564, Japan
- Department of Integrated Biosciences, Graduate School of Frontier Sciences, The University of Tokyo, 5-1-5 Kashiwanoha, Kashiwa, Chiba, 277-8564, Japan
- Collaborative Research Institute for Innovative Microbiology, The University of Tokyo, 1-1-1 Yayoi, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo, 113-8657, Japan
| | - Takanori Kobayashi
- School of Marine Biosciences, Kitasato University, 1-15-1 Kitasato, Minami-ku, Kanagawa, 252-0373, Sagamihara, Japan
| | - Shugo Watabe
- School of Marine Biosciences, Kitasato University, 1-15-1 Kitasato, Minami-ku, Kanagawa, 252-0373, Sagamihara, Japan
| | - Kazuomi Nishikiori
- Tokyo Sea Life Park, 6-2-3 Rinkai-cho, Edogawa-ku, 134-8587, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Shuichi Asakawa
- Department of Aquatic Bioscience, Graduate School of Agricultural and Life Sciences, The University of Tokyo, 1-1-1 Yayoi, Bunkyo-ku, 113-8657, Tokyo, Japan.
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Lu Q, Zhang SY, Du J, Liu Q, Dong C, Zhao J, Wang Y, Yao M. Multi-group biodiversity distributions and drivers of metacommunity organization along a glacial-fluvial-limnic pathway on the Tibetan plateau. ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH 2023; 220:115236. [PMID: 36621545 DOI: 10.1016/j.envres.2023.115236] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2022] [Revised: 12/22/2022] [Accepted: 01/04/2023] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
Extensive global glacial retreats are threatening cryosphere ecosystem functioning and the associated biota in glacier-fed water systems. Understanding multi-group biodiversity distributions and compositional variation across diverse but hydrologically linked habitats under varying glacial influences will help explain the mechanisms underlying glacial community organization and ecosystem processes. However, such data are generally lacking due to the difficulty of obtaining biodiversity information across wide taxonomic ranges. Here, we used a multi-marker environmental DNA metabarcoding approach to simultaneously investigate the spatial patterns of community compositions and assembly mechanisms of four taxonomic groups (cyanobacteria, diatoms, invertebrates, and vertebrates) along the flowpaths of a tributary of Lake Nam Co on the Tibetan Plateau-from its glacier headwaters, through its downstream river and wetlands, to its estuary. We detected 869 operational taxonomic units: 119 cyanobacterial, 395 diatom, 269 invertebrate, and 86 vertebrate. Taxonomic richnesses consistently increased from upstream to downstream, and although all groups showed community similarity distance decay patterns, the trend for vertebrates was the weakest. Cyanobacteria, diatom, and invertebrate community compositions were significantly correlated with several environmental factors, while the vertebrate community was only correlated with waterway width. Variation partitioning analysis indicated that varying extents of environmental conditions and spatial factors affected community organizations for different groups. Furthermore, stochastic processes contributed prominently to the microorganisms' community assembly (Sloan's neutral model R2 = 0.77 for cyanobacteria and 0.73 for diatoms) but were less important for macroorganisms (R2 = 0.21 for invertebrates and 0.15 for vertebrates). That trend was further substantiated by modified stochasticity ratio analyses. This study provides the first holistic picture of the diverse biotic communities residing in a series of hydrologically connected glacier-influenced habitats. Our results both uncovered the distinct mechanisms that underlie the metacommunity organizations of different glacial organisms and helped comprehensively predict the ecological impacts of the world's melting glaciers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qi Lu
- School of Life Sciences, Peking University, Beijing, 100871, China; Institute of Ecology, College of Urban and Environmental Sciences, Peking University, Beijing, 100871, China
| | - Si-Yu Zhang
- School of Life Sciences, Peking University, Beijing, 100871, China; Institute of Ecology, College of Urban and Environmental Sciences, Peking University, Beijing, 100871, China
| | - Jianqing Du
- Beijing Yanshan Earth Critical Zone National Research Station, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 101408, China; College of Resources and Environment, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, China
| | - Qiang Liu
- Beijing Yanshan Earth Critical Zone National Research Station, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 101408, China
| | - Chunxia Dong
- School of Life Sciences, Peking University, Beijing, 100871, China
| | - Jindong Zhao
- School of Life Sciences, Peking University, Beijing, 100871, China; Institute of Ecology, College of Urban and Environmental Sciences, Peking University, Beijing, 100871, China
| | - Yanfen Wang
- College of Resources and Environment, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, China; State Key Laboratory of Tibetan Plateau Earth System, Environment and Resources (TPESER), Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100101, China.
| | - Meng Yao
- School of Life Sciences, Peking University, Beijing, 100871, China; Institute of Ecology, College of Urban and Environmental Sciences, Peking University, Beijing, 100871, China.
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Halvorsen S, Korslund L, Mattingsdal M, Slettan A. Estimating number of European eel ( Anguilla anguilla) individuals using environmental DNA and haplotype count in small rivers. Ecol Evol 2023; 13:e9785. [PMID: 36861025 PMCID: PMC9969050 DOI: 10.1002/ece3.9785] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/11/2022] [Revised: 12/21/2022] [Accepted: 01/16/2023] [Indexed: 03/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Knowledge about population genetic data is important for effective conservation management. Genetic research traditionally requires sampling directly from the organism, for example tissue, which can be challenging, time-consuming, and harmful to the animal. Environmental DNA (eDNA) approaches offer a way to sample genetic material noninvasively. In attempts to estimate population size of aquatic species using eDNA, researchers have found positive correlations between biomass and eDNA concentrations, but the approach is debated because of variations in the production and degrading of DNA in water. Recently, a more accurate eDNA-approach has emerged, focusing on the genomic differences between individuals. In this study, we used eDNA from water samples to estimate the number of European eel (Anguilla anguilla) individuals by examining haplotypes in the mitochondrial D-loop region, both in a closed aquatic environment with 10 eels of known haplotypes and in three rivers. The results revealed that it was possible to find every eel haplotype in the eDNA sample collected from the closed environment. We also found 13 unique haplotypes in the eDNA samples from the three rivers, which probably represent 13 eel individuals. This means that it is possible to obtain genomic information from European eel eDNA in water; however, more research is needed to develop the approach into a possible future tool for population quantification.
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Affiliation(s)
- Silje Halvorsen
- Faculty of Engineering and ScienceUniversity of AgderKristiansandNorway
| | - Lars Korslund
- Faculty of Engineering and ScienceUniversity of AgderKristiansandNorway
| | | | - Audun Slettan
- Faculty of Engineering and ScienceUniversity of AgderKristiansandNorway
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22
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Detection of the Endangered Siamese Bat Catfish ( Oreoglanis siamensis Smith, 1933) in Doi Inthanon National Park Using Environmental DNA. Animals (Basel) 2023; 13:ani13030538. [PMID: 36766427 PMCID: PMC9913137 DOI: 10.3390/ani13030538] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/13/2022] [Revised: 01/04/2023] [Accepted: 01/16/2023] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Siamese bat catfish (Oreoglanis siamensis Smith, 1993) has been listed as an endangered species, and its abundance has been severely declining due to habitat degradation and overfishing. To establish an appropriate management strategy, it is crucial to gain information about the distribution of this endangered species. As O. siamensis live under rocks in streams, detecting their presence is difficult. Recently, environmental DNA (eDNA)-based detection has been demonstrated to be a valid tool for monitoring rare species, such as O. siamensis. Therefore, this study developed an eDNA assay targeting a 160 bp fragment of the COI region to detect the presence of this species in its natural habitat. An amount of 300 mL of water samples (0.7 μm filtered) were collected from 15 sites in the Mae Klang sub-basin, where this fish species was visually detected at two locations. O. siamensis eDNA was detected at 12 of the 15 sites sampled with varying concentrations (0.71-20.27 copies/mL), including at the sites where this species was visually detected previously. The developed O. siamensis eDNA assay was shown to be effective for detecting the presence of this endangered species in the Klang Phat and Klang Rivers within the Doi Inthanon National Park.
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23
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Shollenberger KR, Janosik AM, Johnston C. Detection of the threatened snail darter Percina tanasi in the Tennessee River system using environmental DNA. JOURNAL OF FISH BIOLOGY 2023; 102:373-379. [PMID: 36371654 DOI: 10.1111/jfb.15269] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/03/2022] [Accepted: 11/07/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
The distribution of many fishes that occupy large rivers is poorly known, in part due to the difficulties of sampling for them. This is especially true for small-bodied or rare species, such as the snail darter Percina tanasi, 44, 469-488; 1976). This federally listed (threatened) species has a limited distribution in the Tennessee River system in Alabama and Tennessee, where it is known from a few large tributaries or small rivers. In Alabama, P. tanasi was previously known from only one locality, but has recently been found in two additional, widely separated systems. These new records raise questions regarding the accuracy of our current understanding of the range for this species. Particularly, is P. tanasi present throughout the main stem Tennessee River, and is this species dispersing into new areas from source populations in the river? To clarify the distribution of P. tanasi in Alabama, 83 unique sites were surveyed using environmental DNA analysis. This cost-effective detection tool reduces the difficulty associated with empirically sampling large rivers for small fishes. Approximately 42% of sites sampled were positive for P. tanasi DNA. This study confirmed the known localities of P. tanasi in the Bear Creek, Elk River and Paint Rock River. Several new localities were also discovered throughout the main stem Tennessee River and in Shoal Creek, near Florence, Alabama. These findings can inform biologists about where to prioritize conservation efforts and further could lead to studies assessing movement and relatedness between populations in this system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kurtis R Shollenberger
- School of Fisheries, Aquaculture, and Aquatic Sciences, College of Agriculture, Auburn University, Auburn, Alabama, USA
- Marsh & Associates LLC, Tempe, Arizona, USA
| | - Alexis M Janosik
- Department of Biology, University of West Florida, Pensacola, Florida, USA
| | - Carol Johnston
- School of Fisheries, Aquaculture, and Aquatic Sciences, College of Agriculture, Auburn University, Auburn, Alabama, USA
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Schreiber L, Castellanos‐Galindo GA, Robertson DR, Torchin M, Chavarria K, Laakmann S, Saltonstall K. Environmental DNA (eDNA) reveals potential for interoceanic fish invasions across the Panama Canal. Ecol Evol 2023; 13:e9675. [PMID: 36726876 PMCID: PMC9884569 DOI: 10.1002/ece3.9675] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/05/2022] [Revised: 11/18/2022] [Accepted: 12/05/2022] [Indexed: 02/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Interoceanic canals can facilitate biological invasions as they connect the world's oceans and remove dispersal barriers between bioregions. As a consequence, multiple opportunities for biotic exchange arise and the resulting establishment of migrant species often causes adverse ecological and economic impacts. The Panama Canal is a key region for biotic exchange as it connects the Pacific and Atlantic Oceans in Central America. In this study, we used two complementary methods (environmental DNA (eDNA) metabarcoding and gillnetting) to survey fish communities in this unique waterway. Using COI (cytochrome oxidase subunit I) metabarcoding, we detected a total of 142 fish species, including evidence for the presence of sixteen Atlantic and eight Pacific marine fish in different freshwater sections of the Canal. Of these, nine are potentially new records. Molecular data did not capture all species caught with gillnets, but generally provided a more complete image of the known fish fauna as more small-bodied fish species were detected. Diversity indices based on eDNA surveys revealed significant differences across different sections of the Canal reflecting in part the prevailing environmental conditions. The observed increase in the presence of marine fish species in the Canal indicates a growing potential for interoceanic fish invasions. The potential ecological and evolutionary consequences of this increase in marine fishes are not only restricted to the fish fauna in the Canal as they could also impact adjacent ecosystems in the Pacific and Atlantic Oceans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lennart Schreiber
- Smithsonian Tropical Research InstituteBalboaPanama
- Faculty of Biology & ChemistryUniversity of BremenBremenGermany
| | - Gustavo A. Castellanos‐Galindo
- Smithsonian Tropical Research InstituteBalboaPanama
- Leibniz Institute of Freshwater Ecology and Inland Fisheries (IGB)BerlinGermany
| | | | - Mark Torchin
- Smithsonian Tropical Research InstituteBalboaPanama
| | | | - Silke Laakmann
- Helmholtz Institute for Functional Marine Biodiversity at the University of Oldenburg (HIFMB)OldenburgGermany
- Alfred‐Wegener‐Institute, Helmholtz Centre for Polar and Marine ResearchBremerhavenGermany
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Garrett NR, Watkins J, Francis CM, Simmons NB, Ivanova N, Naaum A, Briscoe A, Drinkwater R, Clare EL. Out of thin air: surveying tropical bat roosts through air sampling of eDNA. PeerJ 2023; 11:e14772. [PMID: 37128209 PMCID: PMC10148639 DOI: 10.7717/peerj.14772] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/18/2022] [Accepted: 01/03/2023] [Indexed: 05/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Understanding roosting behaviour is essential to bat conservation and biomonitoring, often providing the most accurate methods of assessing bat population size and health. However, roosts can be challenging to survey, e.g., physically impossible to access or presenting risks for researchers. Disturbance during monitoring can also disrupt natural bat behaviour and present material risks to the population such as disrupting hibernation cycles. One solution to this is the use of non-invasive monitoring approaches. Environmental (e)DNA has proven especially effective at detecting rare and elusive species particularly in hard-to-reach locations. It has recently been demonstrated that eDNA from vertebrates is carried in air. When collected in semi-confined spaces, this airborne eDNA can provide remarkably accurate profiles of biodiversity, even in complex tropical communities. In this study, we deploy novel airborne eDNA collection for the first time in a natural setting and use this approach to survey difficult to access potential roosts in the neotropics. Using airborne eDNA, we confirmed the presence of bats in nine out of 12 roosts. The identified species matched previous records of roost use obtained from photographic and live capture methods, thus demonstrating the utility of this approach. We also detected the presence of the white-winged vampire bat (Diaemus youngi) which had never been confirmed in the area but was long suspected based on range maps. In addition to the bats, we detected several non-bat vertebrates, including the big-eared climbing rat (Ototylomys phyllotis), which has previously been observed in and around bat roosts in our study area. We also detected eDNA from other local species known to be in the vicinity. Using airborne eDNA to detect new roosts and monitor known populations, particularly when species turnover is rapid, could maximize efficiency for surveyors while minimizing disturbance to the animals. This study presents the first applied use of airborne eDNA collection for ecological analysis moving beyond proof of concept to demonstrate a clear utility for this technology in the wild.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nina R. Garrett
- Department of Biology, York University, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Jonathan Watkins
- School of Biology and Environmental Science, Faculty of Science, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - Charles M. Francis
- Canadian Wildlife Service, Environment and Climate Change Canada, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
| | - Nancy B. Simmons
- Department of Mammalogy, Division of Vertebrate Zoology, American Museum of Natural History, New York, New York, United States of America
| | | | - Amanda Naaum
- Nature Metrics North America Ltd., Guelph, Ontario, Canada
| | - Andrew Briscoe
- Nature Metrics Ltd., Surrey Research Park, Guildford, United Kingdom
| | - Rosie Drinkwater
- Palaeogenomics group, Department of Veterinary Sciences, Ludwig-Maximillian University Munich, Munich, Germany
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Tsuji S, Inui R, Nakao R, Miyazono S, Saito M, Kono T, Akamatsu Y. Quantitative environmental DNA metabarcoding shows high potential as a novel approach to quantitatively assess fish community. Sci Rep 2022; 12:21524. [PMID: 36513686 PMCID: PMC9747787 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-022-25274-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/08/2022] [Accepted: 11/28/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
The simultaneous conservation of species richness and evenness is important to effectively reduce biodiversity loss and keep ecosystem health. Environmental DNA (eDNA) metabarcoding has been used as a powerful tool for identifying community composition, but it does not necessarily provide quantitative information due to several methodological limitations. Thus, the quantification of eDNA through metabarcoding is an important frontier of eDNA-based biomonitoring. Particularly, the qMiSeq approach has recently been developed as a quantitative metabarcoding method and has attracted much attention due to its usefulness. The aim here was to evaluate the performance of the qMiSeq approach as a quantitative monitoring tool for fish communities by comparing the quantified eDNA concentrations with the results of fish capture surveys. The eDNA water sampling and the capture surveys using the electrical shocker were conducted at a total of 21 sites in four rivers in Japan. As a result, we found significant positive relationships between the eDNA concentrations of each species quantified by qMiSeq and both the abundance and biomass of each captured taxon at each site. Furthermore, for seven out of eleven taxa, a significant positive relationship was observed between quantified DNA concentrations by sample and the abundance and/or biomass. In total, our results demonstrated that eDNA metabarcoding with the qMiSeq approach is a suitable and useful tool for quantitative monitoring of fish communities. Due to the simplicity of the eDNA analysis, the eDNA metabarcoding with qMiSeq approach would promote further growth of quantitative monitoring of biodiversity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Satsuki Tsuji
- grid.258799.80000 0004 0372 2033Graduate School of Science, Kyoto University, Kitashirakawa-Oiwakecho, Sakyo-Ku, Kyoto, 606–8502 Japan ,grid.268397.10000 0001 0660 7960Graduate School of Science and Technology for Innovation, Yamaguchi University, 2-16-1 Tokiwadai, Ube, Yamaguchi, 755–8611 Japan
| | - Ryutei Inui
- grid.418051.90000 0000 8774 3245Faculty of Socio-Environmental Studies, Fukuoka Institute of Technology, Wajiro-Higashi, Higashi-Ku, Fukuoka, 811–0295 Japan
| | - Ryohei Nakao
- grid.268397.10000 0001 0660 7960Graduate School of Science and Technology for Innovation, Yamaguchi University, 2-16-1 Tokiwadai, Ube, Yamaguchi, 755–8611 Japan
| | - Seiji Miyazono
- grid.268397.10000 0001 0660 7960Graduate School of Science and Technology for Innovation, Yamaguchi University, 2-16-1 Tokiwadai, Ube, Yamaguchi, 755–8611 Japan
| | - Minoru Saito
- grid.268397.10000 0001 0660 7960Graduate School of Science and Technology for Innovation, Yamaguchi University, 2-16-1 Tokiwadai, Ube, Yamaguchi, 755–8611 Japan ,grid.452611.50000 0001 2107 8171Fisheries Division, Japan International Research Center for Agricultural Sciences, 1-1, Ohwashi, Tsukuba, Ibaraki 305–8686 Japan
| | - Takanori Kono
- grid.268397.10000 0001 0660 7960Graduate School of Science and Technology for Innovation, Yamaguchi University, 2-16-1 Tokiwadai, Ube, Yamaguchi, 755–8611 Japan ,grid.472015.50000 0000 9513 8387Aqua Restoration Research Center, Public Works Research Institute, National Research and Development Agency, Kawashima, Kasada-Machi, Kakamigahara, Gifu, 501–6021 Japan
| | - Yoshihisa Akamatsu
- grid.268397.10000 0001 0660 7960Graduate School of Science and Technology for Innovation, Yamaguchi University, 2-16-1 Tokiwadai, Ube, Yamaguchi, 755–8611 Japan
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27
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Environmental DNA (eDNA): Powerful Technique for Biodiversity Conservation. J Nat Conserv 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jnc.2022.126325] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
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Porco D, Hermant S, Purnomo CA, Horn M, Marson G, Colling G. Getting rid of ‘rain’ and ‘stars’: Mitigating inhibition effects on ddPCR data analysis, the case study of the invasive crayfish Pacifastacus leniusculus in the streams of Luxembourg. PLoS One 2022; 17:e0275363. [PMCID: PMC9668142 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0275363] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2022] [Accepted: 09/14/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
ddPCR is becoming one of the most widely used tool in the field of eDNA-based aquatic monitoring. Although emulsion PCR used in ddPCR confers a partial mitigation to inhibition due to the high number of reactions for a single sample (between 10K and 20K), it is not impervious to it. Our results showed that inhibition impacts the amplitude of fluorescence in positive droplets with a different intensity among rivers. This signal fluctuation could jeopardize the use of a shared threshold among samples from different origin, and thus the accurate assignment of the positive droplets which is particularly important for low concentration samples such as eDNA ones: amplification events are scarce, thus their objective discrimination as positive is crucial. Another issue, related to target low concentration, is the artifactual generation of high fluorescence droplets (‘stars’). Indeed, these could be counted as positive with a single threshold solution, which in turn could produce false positive and incorrect target concentration assessments. Approximating the positive and negative droplets distribution as normal, we proposed here a double threshold method accounting for both high fluorescence droplets (‘stars’) and PCR inhibition impact in delineating positive droplets clouds. In the context of low concentration template recovered from environmental samples, the application of this method of double threshold establishment could allow for a consistent sorting of the positive and negative droplets throughout ddPCR data generated from samples with varying levels of inhibitor contents. Due to low concentrations template and inhibition effects, Quantasoft software produced an important number of false negatives and positive comparatively to the double threshold method developed here. This case study allowed the detection of the invasive crayfish P. leniusculus in 32 out of 34 sampled sites from two main rivers (Alzette and Sûre) and five of their tributaries (Eisch, Attert, Mamer, Wiltz and Clerve).
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Affiliation(s)
- David Porco
- Musée National d’histoire Naturelle, Life Science Department—Invertebrate Zoology, Population Biology and Evolution, Luxembourg, Luxembourg
- Fondation Faune Flore, Luxembourg, Luxembourg
- * E-mail:
| | - Sylvie Hermant
- Musée National d’histoire Naturelle, Life Science Department—Invertebrate Zoology, Population Biology and Evolution, Luxembourg, Luxembourg
| | - Chanistya Ayu Purnomo
- Musée National d’histoire Naturelle, Life Science Department—Invertebrate Zoology, Population Biology and Evolution, Luxembourg, Luxembourg
- Fondation Faune Flore, Luxembourg, Luxembourg
| | - Mario Horn
- Musée National d’histoire Naturelle, Life Science Department—Invertebrate Zoology, Population Biology and Evolution, Luxembourg, Luxembourg
| | - Guy Marson
- Musée National d’histoire Naturelle, Life Science Department—Invertebrate Zoology, Population Biology and Evolution, Luxembourg, Luxembourg
| | - Guy Colling
- Musée National d’histoire Naturelle, Life Science Department—Invertebrate Zoology, Population Biology and Evolution, Luxembourg, Luxembourg
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Schuster CJ, Kent ML, Peterson JT, Sanders JL. MULTI-STATE OCCUPANCY MODEL ESTIMATES PROBABILITY OF DETECTION OF AN AQUATIC PARASITE USING ENVIRONMENTAL DNA: PSEUDOLOMA NEUROPHILIA IN ZEBRAFISH AQUARIA. J Parasitol 2022; 108:527-538. [PMID: 36326809 PMCID: PMC9811945 DOI: 10.1645/22-21] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
Detecting the presence of important parasites within a host and its environment is critical to understanding the dynamics that influence a pathogen's ability to persist, while accurate detection is also essential for the implementation of effective control strategies. Pseudoloma neurophilia is the most common pathogen reported in zebrafish (Danio rerio) research facilities. The only assays currently available for P. neurophilia are through lethal sampling, often requiring euthanasia of the entire population for accurate estimates of prevalence in small populations. We present a non-lethal screening method to detect P. neurophilia in tank water based on the detection of environmental DNA (eDNA) from this microsporidium, using a previously developed qPCR assay that was adapted to the digital PCR (dPCR) platform to complement current surveillance protocols. Using the generated dPCR data, a multi-state occupancy model was also implemented to predict the probability of detecting the microsporidium in tank water under different flow regimes and pathogen prevalence. The occupancy model revealed that samples collected in static conditions were more informative than samples collected from flow-through conditions, with a probability of detection at 80% and 47%, respectively. There was also a positive correlation between the frequency of detection in water and prevalence in fish based on qPCR.
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Affiliation(s)
- Corbin J Schuster
- Department of Microbiology, Oregon State University, 2820 SW Campus Way, Corvallis, Oregon 97331
- Zebrafish International Resource Center, University of Oregon, 1100 Johnson Lane, Eugene, Oregon 97403
| | - Michael L Kent
- Department of Microbiology, Oregon State University, 2820 SW Campus Way, Corvallis, Oregon 97331
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Carlson College of Veterinary Medicine, Oregon State University, 700 SW 30th St., Corvallis, Oregon 97331
| | - James T Peterson
- U.S. Geological Survey, Oregon Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Unit, Department of Fisheries, Wildlife, and Conservation Sciences, Oregon State University, 2820 SW Campus Way, Corvallis, Oregon 97331
| | - Justin L Sanders
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Carlson College of Veterinary Medicine, Oregon State University, 700 SW 30th St., Corvallis, Oregon 97331
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Young MK, Isaak DJ, Nagel D, Horan DL, Carim KJ, Franklin TW, Zeller VA, Roper B, Schwartz MK. Broad-scale eDNA sampling for describing aquatic species distributions in running waters: Pacific lamprey Entosphenus tridentatus in the upper Snake River, USA. JOURNAL OF FISH BIOLOGY 2022; 101:1312-1325. [PMID: 36053967 DOI: 10.1111/jfb.15202] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2022] [Accepted: 08/21/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
One of the most fundamental yet challenging tasks for aquatic ecologists is to precisely delineate the range of species, particularly those that are broadly distributed, require specialized sampling methods, and may be simultaneously declining and increasing in different portions of their range. An exemplar is the Pacific lamprey Entosphenus tridentatus, a jawless anadromous fish of conservation concern that is actively managed in many coastal basins in western North America. To efficiently determine its distribution across the accessible 56,168 km of the upper Snake River basin in the north-western United States, we first delimited potential habitat by using predictions from a species distribution model based on conventionally collected historical data and from the distribution of a potential surrogate, Chinook salmon Oncorhynchus tshawytscha, which yielded a potential habitat network of 10,615 km. Within this area, we conducted a two-stage environmental DNA survey involving 394 new samples and 187 archived samples collected by professional biologists and citizen scientists using a single, standardized method from 2015 to 2021. We estimated that Pacific lamprey occupied 1875 km of lotic habitat in this basin, of which 1444 km may have been influenced by recent translocation efforts. Pacific lamprey DNA was consistently present throughout most river main stems, although detections became weaker or less frequent in the largest and warmest downstream channels and near their headwater extent. Pacific lamprey were detected in nearly all stocked tributaries, but there was no evidence of indigenous populations in such habitats. There was evidence of post-stocking movement because detections were 1.8-36.0 km upstream from release sites. By crafting a model-driven spatial sampling template and executing an eDNA-based sampling campaign led by professionals and volunteers, supplemented by previously collected samples, we established a benchmark for understanding the current range of Pacific lamprey across a large portion of its range in the interior Columbia River basin. This approach could be tailored to refine range estimates for other wide-ranging aquatic species of conservation concern.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael K Young
- USDA Forest Service, Rocky Mountain Research Station, National Genomics Center for Wildlife and Fish Conservation, Missoula, Montana, USA
| | - Daniel J Isaak
- USDA Forest Service, Rocky Mountain Research Station, Boise Spatial Streams Group, Boise, Idaho, USA
| | - David Nagel
- USDA Forest Service, Rocky Mountain Research Station, Boise Spatial Streams Group, Boise, Idaho, USA
| | - Dona L Horan
- USDA Forest Service, Rocky Mountain Research Station, Boise Spatial Streams Group, Boise, Idaho, USA
| | - Kellie J Carim
- USDA Forest Service, Rocky Mountain Research Station, Aldo Leopold Wilderness Research Institute, Missoula, Montana, USA
| | - Thomas W Franklin
- USDA Forest Service, Rocky Mountain Research Station, National Genomics Center for Wildlife and Fish Conservation, Missoula, Montana, USA
| | - Victoria A Zeller
- USDA Forest Service, Rocky Mountain Research Station, National Genomics Center for Wildlife and Fish Conservation, Missoula, Montana, USA
| | - Brett Roper
- USDA Forest Service, National Stream and Aquatic Ecology Center, Logan, Utah, USA
| | - Michael K Schwartz
- USDA Forest Service, Rocky Mountain Research Station, National Genomics Center for Wildlife and Fish Conservation, Missoula, Montana, USA
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Yao M, Zhang S, Lu Q, Chen X, Zhang SY, Kong Y, Zhao J. Fishing for fish environmental DNA: Ecological applications, methodological considerations, surveying designs, and ways forward. Mol Ecol 2022; 31:5132-5164. [PMID: 35972241 DOI: 10.1111/mec.16659] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/18/2022] [Revised: 07/20/2022] [Accepted: 07/27/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Vast global declines of freshwater and marine fish diversity and population abundance pose serious threats to both ecosystem sustainability and human livelihoods. Environmental DNA (eDNA)-based biomonitoring provides robust, efficient, and cost-effective assessment of species occurrences and population trends in diverse aquatic environments. Thus, it holds great potential for improving conventional surveillance frameworks to facilitate fish conservation and fisheries management. However, the many technical considerations and rapid developments underway in the eDNA arena can overwhelm researchers and practitioners new to the field. Here, we systematically analysed 416 fish eDNA studies to summarize research trends in terms of investigated targets, research aims, and study systems, and reviewed the applications, rationales, methodological considerations, and limitations of eDNA methods with an emphasis on fish and fisheries research. We highlighted how eDNA technology may advance our knowledge of fish behaviour, species distributions, population genetics, community structures, and ecological interactions. We also synthesized the current knowledge of several important methodological concerns, including the qualitative and quantitative power eDNA has to recover fish biodiversity and abundance, and the spatial and temporal representations of eDNA with respect to its sources. To facilitate ecological applications implementing fish eDNA techniques, recent literature was summarized to generate guidelines for effective sampling in lentic, lotic, and marine habitats. Finally, we identified current gaps and limitations, and pointed out newly emerging research avenues for fish eDNA. As methodological optimization and standardization improve, eDNA technology should revolutionize fish monitoring and promote biodiversity conservation and fisheries management that transcends geographic and temporal boundaries.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meng Yao
- Institute of Ecology, College of Urban and Environmental Sciences, Peking University, Beijing, China.,School of Life Sciences, Peking University, Beijing, China
| | - Shan Zhang
- Institute of Ecology, College of Urban and Environmental Sciences, Peking University, Beijing, China.,School of Life Sciences, Peking University, Beijing, China
| | - Qi Lu
- Institute of Ecology, College of Urban and Environmental Sciences, Peking University, Beijing, China.,School of Life Sciences, Peking University, Beijing, China
| | - Xiaoyu Chen
- Institute of Ecology, College of Urban and Environmental Sciences, Peking University, Beijing, China.,School of Life Sciences, Peking University, Beijing, China
| | - Si-Yu Zhang
- Institute of Ecology, College of Urban and Environmental Sciences, Peking University, Beijing, China.,School of Life Sciences, Peking University, Beijing, China
| | - Yueqiao Kong
- Institute of Ecology, College of Urban and Environmental Sciences, Peking University, Beijing, China.,School of Life Sciences, Peking University, Beijing, China
| | - Jindong Zhao
- Institute of Ecology, College of Urban and Environmental Sciences, Peking University, Beijing, China.,School of Life Sciences, Peking University, Beijing, China
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32
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Zhang J, Ding R, Wang Y, Wen J. Experimental study on the response relationship between environmental DNA concentration and biomass of Schizothorax prenanti in still water. Front Ecol Evol 2022. [DOI: 10.3389/fevo.2022.972680] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
The superiority of the environmental DNA (eDNA) method for estimating the biomass of aquatic species has been demonstrated. However, the relationship between eDNA concentration and biomass is difficult to clarify under the influence of complex water flow and habitat conditions. It seriously restricts the popularization and application of the eDNA method in estimating aquatic biomass. In this paper, a typical fish species of rivers in southwest China, Schizothorax prenanti, was selected as the target species. Under standardized laboratory hydrostatic conditions, two environmental factors, water pH and water temperature were firstly determined through pre-experiments. Then we investigated the correlation between eDNA concentration and biomass under different body sizes and different body size compositions. The experimental results showed that water pH and the water temperature had a great influence on eDNA concentration. Therefore, the effects of these environmental factors need to be considered simultaneously when using eDNA concentration to estimate biomass. Under the premise of consistent environmental conditions, the biomass of Schizothorax prenanti was positively correlated with the eDNA concentration when the individual body size was the same. For each 1% increase in biomass of the fish, the eDNA concentration of adult (larger size) fish increased by 0.98%, while the eDNA concentration of juvenile (smaller size) fish increased by 1.38%. The smaller the size of individual fish, the greater the increase of eDNA concentration with biomass, and the increase of juvenile fish was about 1.4 times that the adult fish. When the biomass was the same but the body size composition was different, the higher the proportion of small body size individuals in the population, the higher the eDNA concentration. Special attention needs to be paid to the body size composition of the population to avoid the biomass estimation being lower than the actual value when the smaller size fish are dominant. The experimental results provide a strong basis for a more accurate estimation of aquatic biomass in reservoirs, lakes, and other still water areas by using the eDNA method.
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33
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Nordstrom B, Mitchell N, Byrne M, Jarman S. A review of applications of environmental DNA for reptile conservation and management. Ecol Evol 2022; 12:e8995. [PMID: 35784065 PMCID: PMC9168342 DOI: 10.1002/ece3.8995] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2022] [Revised: 05/15/2022] [Accepted: 05/19/2022] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Reptile populations are in decline globally, with total reptile abundance halving in the past half century, and approximately a fifth of species currently threatened with extinction. Research on reptile distributions, population trends, and trophic interactions can greatly improve the accuracy of conservation listings and planning for species recovery, but data deficiency is an impediment for many species. Environmental DNA (eDNA) can detect species and measure community diversity at diverse spatio‐temporal scales, and is especially useful for detection of elusive, cryptic, or rare species, making it potentially very valuable in herpetology. We aim to summarize the utility of eDNA as a tool for informing reptile conservation and management and discuss the benefits and limitations of this approach. A literature review was conducted to collect all studies that used eDNA and focus on reptile ecology, conservation, or management. Results of the literature search are summarized into key discussion points, and the review also draws on eDNA studies from other taxa to highlight methodological challenges and to identify future research directions. eDNA has had limited application to reptiles, relative to other vertebrate groups, and little use in regions with high species richness. eDNA techniques have been more successfully applied to aquatic reptiles than to terrestrial reptiles, and most (64%) of studies focused on aquatic habitats. Two of the four reptilian orders dominate the existing eDNA studies (56% Testudines, 49% Squamata, 5% Crocodilia, 0% Rhynchocephalia). Our review provides direction for the application of eDNA as an emerging tool in reptile ecology and conservation, especially when it can be paired with traditional monitoring approaches. Technologies associated with eDNA are rapidly advancing, and as techniques become more sensitive and accessible, we expect eDNA will be increasingly valuable for addressing key knowledge gaps for reptiles.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bethany Nordstrom
- School of Biological Sciences The University of Western Australia Crawley Western Australia Australia
| | - Nicola Mitchell
- School of Biological Sciences The University of Western Australia Crawley Western Australia Australia
| | - Margaret Byrne
- School of Biological Sciences The University of Western Australia Crawley Western Australia Australia
- Department of Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions Biodiversity and Conservation Science Perth Western Australia Australia
| | - Simon Jarman
- School of Biological Sciences The University of Western Australia Crawley Western Australia Australia
- UWA Oceans Institute The University of Western Australia Crawley Western Australia Australia
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34
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Keller AG, Grason EW, McDonald PS, Ramón-Laca A, Kelly RP. Tracking an invasion front with environmental DNA. ECOLOGICAL APPLICATIONS : A PUBLICATION OF THE ECOLOGICAL SOCIETY OF AMERICA 2022; 32:e2561. [PMID: 35128750 DOI: 10.1002/eap.2561] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/05/2021] [Revised: 10/21/2021] [Accepted: 12/14/2021] [Indexed: 05/03/2023]
Abstract
Data from environmental DNA (eDNA) may revolutionize environmental monitoring and management, providing increased detection sensitivity at reduced cost and survey effort. However, eDNA data are rarely used in decision-making contexts, mainly due to uncertainty around (1) data interpretation and (2) whether and how molecular tools dovetail with existing management efforts. We address these challenges by jointly modeling eDNA detection via qPCR and traditional trap data to estimate the density of invasive European green crab (Carcinus maenas), a species for which, historically, baited traps have been used for both detection and control. Our analytical framework simultaneously quantifies uncertainty in both detection methods and provides a robust way of integrating different data streams into management processes. Moreover, the joint model makes clear the marginal information benefit of adding eDNA (or any other) additional data type to an existing monitoring program, offering a path to optimizing sampling efforts for species of management interest. Here, we document green crab eDNA beyond the previously known invasion front and find that the value of eDNA data dramatically increases with low population densities and low traditional sampling effort, as is often the case at leading-edge locations. We also highlight the detection limits of the molecular assay used in this study, as well as scenarios under which eDNA sampling is unlikely to improve existing management efforts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abigail G Keller
- School of Marine and Environmental Affairs, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA
| | - Emily W Grason
- Washington Sea Grant, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA
| | - P Sean McDonald
- School of Aquatic & Fishery Sciences, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA
| | - Ana Ramón-Laca
- CICOES, University of Washington at Northwest Fisheries Science Center, Seattle, Washington, USA
| | - Ryan P Kelly
- School of Marine and Environmental Affairs, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA
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35
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Pelletier TA, Stefaniak KR, Vigilante TE, Reavis D, Mekus A, Mohamed DA, Lau JK. Documenting Emerging Insects, Environmental DNA, and Metal Concentrations in a Small Appalachian Stream. Northeast Nat (Steuben) 2022. [DOI: 10.1656/045.029.0202] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Drew Reavis
- Department of Biology, Radford University, Radford, VA 24142
| | - Alex Mekus
- Department of Chemistry, Radford University, Radford, VA 24142
| | | | - Jamie K. Lau
- Department of Biology, Radford University, Radford, VA 24142
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36
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Detection the eDNA of Batrachuperus taibaiensis from the Zhouzhi Heihe River Using a Nested PCR Method and DNA Barcoding. Animals (Basel) 2022; 12:ani12091105. [PMID: 35565532 PMCID: PMC9099721 DOI: 10.3390/ani12091105] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/09/2022] [Revised: 04/21/2022] [Accepted: 04/22/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary The Taibai stream salamander (Batrachuperus taibaiensis) is a protected species endemic to the Zhouzhi Heihe River. Few traditional studies have been conducted on the distribution of B. taibaiensis, leading to irregular discoveries. Environmental DNA (eDNA) is an ideal species detection technique that can increase accuracy and decrease the cost of population surveys. Here, we have established an optimal method for obtaining the eDNA of B. taibaiensis from water samples, which provides a theoretical basis and reference for resource investigation and protection of B. taibaiensis. Moreover, this study highlights the detection of a rare species in a river for use in further research. Abstract The Taibai stream salamander (Batrachuperus taibaiensis) is a recently described species of the genus Batrachuperus that occurs in the Zhouzhi Heihe River and is endangered in its native range. Here, we have established a method for water environmental DNA (eDNA) analysis of Batrachuperus using a series of optimizations. We have designed a specific set of primers for the genus Batrachuperus to amplify a 160 bp fragment of Cytb. The sequences were obtained from nested PCR on eDNA extracted from water samples, after which DNA barcoding was performed according to sequence analysis to determine the presence of the target species in the water. The method was validated using water from the Zhouzhi Heihe River with known B. taibaiensis populations and found that B. taibaiensis eDNA can move at least 150 m downstream from its point of origin. This study is the first to establish an optimal method for obtaining the eDNA of Batrachuperus from water samples, which provides a theoretical basis for resource investigation and the protection of B. taibaiensis in future research. It is also an example of the eDNA extraction of other species that live in similar waters and are less genetically diverse between species.
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37
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Parker LD, Quinta JD, Rivera I, Cypher BL, Kelly EC, Campana MG, Fleischer RC, Boarman R, Boarman WI, Maldonado JE. Genetic analyses are more sensitive than morphological inspection at detecting the presence of threatened Mojave desert tortoise (
Gopherus agassizii
) remains in canid scat and raven pellets. CONSERVATION SCIENCE AND PRACTICE 2022. [DOI: 10.1111/csp2.12689] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Lillian D. Parker
- Center for Conservation Genomics Smithsonian Conservation Biology Institute and National Zoological Park Washington District of Columbia USA
- School of Systems Biology George Mason University Virginia USA
| | - Jessica D. Quinta
- Center for Conservation Genomics Smithsonian Conservation Biology Institute and National Zoological Park Washington District of Columbia USA
| | - Isabel Rivera
- Center for Conservation Genomics Smithsonian Conservation Biology Institute and National Zoological Park Washington District of Columbia USA
| | - Brian L. Cypher
- Endangered Species Recovery Program California State University Stanislaus Turlock California USA
| | - Erica C. Kelly
- Endangered Species Recovery Program California State University Stanislaus Turlock California USA
| | - Michael G. Campana
- Center for Conservation Genomics Smithsonian Conservation Biology Institute and National Zoological Park Washington District of Columbia USA
- School of Systems Biology George Mason University Virginia USA
- Department of Environmental Science and Policy George Mason University Virginia USA
| | - Robert C. Fleischer
- Center for Conservation Genomics Smithsonian Conservation Biology Institute and National Zoological Park Washington District of Columbia USA
| | - Ryan Boarman
- Conservation Science Research and Consultation Spring Valley California USA
| | - William I. Boarman
- Conservation Science Research and Consultation Spring Valley California USA
| | - Jesús E. Maldonado
- Center for Conservation Genomics Smithsonian Conservation Biology Institute and National Zoological Park Washington District of Columbia USA
- School of Systems Biology George Mason University Virginia USA
- Department of Environmental Science and Policy George Mason University Virginia USA
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38
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Effects of Temperature on the Timeliness of eDNA/eRNA: A Case Study of Fenneropenaeus chinensis. WATER 2022. [DOI: 10.3390/w14071155] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/10/2022]
Abstract
Environmental DNA (eDNA) technology has been successfully applied to detect organisms in various aquatic ecosystems. However, eDNA has been proven to exist for a long time in environmental samples. The timeliness of eDNA detection results largely depends on the rate of molecular degradation. Environmental RNA (eRNA) is considered an excellent complementary tool because most researchers believe that RNA degrades faster than DNA in vitro, while, to the best of our knowledge, the number of published articles related to eRNA is very limited. To address an important knowledge gap, this study focused on the response mechanism of eRNA degradation to water temperature change as compared with eDNA. Changes in the concentration of eDNA and eRNA of the mitochondrial cytochrome c oxidase subunit 1 (COI) gene from Fenneropenaeuschinensis were detected at four temperatures (10, 15, 20 and 25 °C). The results showed that the degradation rate of eDNA increased with an increase in temperature. The degradation rate constants ranged from 0.011 to 0.486 h−1 and the degradation time ranged from 8 to 383 h for eDNA. The degradation rate of eRNA changed slightly with an increase in temperature. The degradation rate constants ranged from 0.190 to 0.379 h−1 and the degradation time ranged from 11 to 22 h for eRNA. eRNA showed better stability under temperature change and maintained a faster degradation rate at low temperatures. These results provide answers to the questions of whether eRNA and eDNA degradation rates are fast or slow. Furthermore, this study may suggest the potential superiority of eRNA over eDNA and promote further study of eRNA in future research.
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Highly sensitive environmental DNA detection of topmouth gudgeon, Pseudorasbora parva: a comparison of qPCR and microfluidic qdPCR. Biol Invasions 2022. [DOI: 10.1007/s10530-022-02761-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/02/2022]
Abstract
AbstractTopmouth gudgeon is a freshwater fish species native to East Asia. Nowadays, P. parva is spread throughout Europe which is of concern because besides being considered one of the worst aquatic Invasive Alien Species (IAS) in Europe it is also a known vector of Spherotecum destruens, the rosette-like parasite lethal to other fish species. The present study describes the development and validation of a new species-specific assay based on hydrolysis probe chemistry to detect P. parva environmental DNA (eDNA) in water samples collected in a northern region of Italy (Friuli Venezia Giulia). Water samples were collected from 55 sites in an area where partial information on the occurrence of the species is available. eDNA was isolated from all samples and the presence of P. parva eDNA was tested by means of qPCR (quantitative PCR) and microfluidic qdPCR (quantitative digital PCR) techniques. Field results for both qPCR and qdPCR were largely in agreement in terms of detection (presence/absence). Thus, we judged the presence/absence by combining the results from the two methods and found that nine sites showed “strong positive” signal of P. parva eDNA (at least 2 positive replicates), 3 showed “suspected” (only 1 positive replicate), and 42 showed “absent”. The current study shows the strong potential of the newly developed eDNA approach to be a valuable addition to the monitoring of the highly invasive topmouth gudgeon in freshwater ecosystems.
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40
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Lam IPY, Sung YH, Fong JJ. Using eDNA techniques to find the endangered big-headed turtle (Platysternon megacephalum). PLoS One 2022; 17:e0262015. [PMID: 35130297 PMCID: PMC8820637 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0262015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/22/2021] [Accepted: 12/15/2021] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
We evaluate the efficacy of environmental DNA (eDNA) techniques to locate wild populations and estimate the population size of the endangered big-headed turtle (Platysternon megacephalum) in Hong Kong. The results from this study are important for identifying priority sites for protection and further research. Additionally, we assess the impact of two environmental variables (temperature and pH) on eDNA quantity. We surveyed 34 streams for three years, sampling four times each year. Four new populations were first identified with eDNA analysis, and then verified by field surveys. Our multi-year survey highlights that eDNA detection can be inconsistent over time, even in streams with known populations. There was no significant relationship between eDNA quantity and the environmental variables tested. Lastly, our results suggest that eDNA methods remain promising to estimate population size, since number of positive detections were positively correlated with population size in streams with known populations. We conclude that eDNA methods are powerful, but care must be taken when interpreting field results as they are affected by species ecology and environmental conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Yik-Hei Sung
- Science Unit, Lingnan University, Hong Kong, China
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41
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Zhang S, Zheng Y, Zhan A, Dong C, Zhao J, Yao M. Environmental DNA captures native and non-native fish community variations across the lentic and lotic systems of a megacity. SCIENCE ADVANCES 2022; 8:eabk0097. [PMID: 35148174 PMCID: PMC8836804 DOI: 10.1126/sciadv.abk0097] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/09/2023]
Abstract
Globally, urbanization poses a major threat to terrestrial biodiversity, yet its impact on fish diversity is poorly understood, mainly because of surveying difficulties. In this study, environmental DNA metabarcoding was used to survey fish communities at 109 lentic and lotic sites across Beijing, and how environmental variables affect fish biodiversity at fine urban spatial scales was investigated. We identified 52 native and 23 non-native taxa, with lentic and lotic waters harboring both common and habitat-specific species. Water quality strongly affected native fish diversity, especially in lentic systems, but had little influence on non-native diversity. Fish diversity showed little response to urban land cover variation, but the relative sequence abundance of non-natives in lotic waters increased linearly with distance from the city center. Our findings illustrate the complex effects of urbanization on native versus non-native fishes in different aquatic habitats and highlight the distinctive considerations needed to conserve urban aquatic biodiversity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shan Zhang
- School of Life Sciences, Peking University, Beijing 100871, China
- Institute of Ecology, College of Urban and Environmental Sciences, Peking University, Beijing 100871, China
| | - Yitao Zheng
- School of Life Sciences, Peking University, Beijing 100871, China
- Institute of Ecology, College of Urban and Environmental Sciences, Peking University, Beijing 100871, China
| | - Aibin Zhan
- Research Center for Eco-Environmental Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100085, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Chunxia Dong
- School of Life Sciences, Peking University, Beijing 100871, China
| | - Jindong Zhao
- School of Life Sciences, Peking University, Beijing 100871, China
- Institute of Ecology, College of Urban and Environmental Sciences, Peking University, Beijing 100871, China
- State Key Laboratory of Freshwater Ecology and Biotechnology, Institute of Hydrobiology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wuhan 430072, China
| | - Meng Yao
- School of Life Sciences, Peking University, Beijing 100871, China
- Institute of Ecology, College of Urban and Environmental Sciences, Peking University, Beijing 100871, China
- Corresponding author. ,
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42
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Ji F, Han D, Yan L, Yan S, Zha J, Shen J. Assessment of benthic invertebrate diversity and river ecological status along an urbanized gradient using environmental DNA metabarcoding and a traditional survey method. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2022; 806:150587. [PMID: 34582852 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2021.150587] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/17/2021] [Revised: 09/20/2021] [Accepted: 09/21/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Benthic invertebrate diversity is one of the most commonly used bioindicators for assessing aquatic ecosystem health in river systems. Although an increasing number of studies have focused on assessing benthic invertebrate diversity using environmental DNA metabarcoding and traditional survey methods, benthic invertebrate diversity and ecological status assessments performed across different landscapes within river systems have not been well documented. Here, the diversity and ecological status of benthic invertebrates and the influence of water quality on the invertebrate assemblage distribution along an urbanization gradient in rivers from the Jingjinji (JJJ) region, China, were investigated using eDNA metabarcoding and the traditional method. With the combination of the two methods, 395 benthic invertebrates from 6 phyla, 27 orders, 94 families, and 222 genera were identified. The species richness of the benthic invertebrate community in the mountain area was significantly higher than that in the urban and agricultural areas. Compared to the traditional results, eDNA metabarcoding obtained a significantly greater number of species from every sampling site (P = 0.000) and detected a notably higher abundance in Annelida (P = 0.000). Furthermore, the nonmetric multidimensional scaling (NMDS) and permutational multivariate analysis of variance (PERMANOVA) based on the Bray-Curtis dissimilarity index indicated that the benthic invertebrate communities from the different habitats were discriminated more accurately and easily using eDNA metabarcoding (P = 0.038) than with the traditional method (P = 0.829). Additionally, the assemblages identified by eDNA metabarcoding were more closely linked to water quality and could be realistically used to assess the ecological status of rivers. Our findings highlight that eDNA metabarcoding could represent a rapid and reliable method for estimating benthic invertebrate diversity and ecological status in river systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fenfen Ji
- Engineering Research Center of Green Development for Conventional Aquatic Biological Industry in the Yangtze River Economic Belt, Ministry of Education, College of Fisheries, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan 430070, China; Key Laboratory of Drinking Water Science and Technology, Research Center for Eco-Environmental Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100085, China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Dingyi Han
- Engineering Research Center of Green Development for Conventional Aquatic Biological Industry in the Yangtze River Economic Belt, Ministry of Education, College of Fisheries, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan 430070, China; Key Laboratory of Drinking Water Science and Technology, Research Center for Eco-Environmental Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100085, China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Liang Yan
- Key Laboratory of Drinking Water Science and Technology, Research Center for Eco-Environmental Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100085, China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Saihong Yan
- Key Laboratory of Drinking Water Science and Technology, Research Center for Eco-Environmental Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100085, China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Jinmiao Zha
- Key Laboratory of Drinking Water Science and Technology, Research Center for Eco-Environmental Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100085, China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China.
| | - Jianzhong Shen
- Engineering Research Center of Green Development for Conventional Aquatic Biological Industry in the Yangtze River Economic Belt, Ministry of Education, College of Fisheries, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan 430070, China.
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43
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King AC, Krieg R, Weston A, Zenker AK. Using eDNA to simultaneously detect the distribution of native and invasive crayfish within an entire country. JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT 2022; 302:113929. [PMID: 34688048 DOI: 10.1016/j.jenvman.2021.113929] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2021] [Revised: 09/03/2021] [Accepted: 10/07/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
The introduction of invasive crayfish has led to a decline of many European native species of crayfish across their range. In this study, novel duplex assays for all crayfish occurring in Switzerland were developed. We aimed to identify the distribution of the seven species using a traditional trap surveillance method as well by collecting water samples to detect eDNA by species-specific quantitative real-time PCR. We reveal our overall experience in finding optimal field and laboratory techniques to discover the distribution and abundance of native and invasive species in order to enhance knowledge of early invasive species invasion and highlight important pockets of populations where native species remain, for implementation of conservation strategies. Using eDNA, important populations of native noble and white-clawed crayfish were revealed in multiple waters across various cantons. The successful identification of native and invasive crayfish species in Switzerland using eDNA can be applied to future nationwide projects. This method which has the ability to detect all species simultaneously across an entire country, will allow an improvement in freshwater crayfish conservation management.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alex C King
- University of Applied Sciences and Arts North-western Switzerland, Hofackerstrasse 30, CH-4132, Muttenz, Switzerland
| | - Raphael Krieg
- University of Applied Sciences and Arts North-western Switzerland, Hofackerstrasse 30, CH-4132, Muttenz, Switzerland
| | - Anna Weston
- University of Applied Sciences and Arts North-western Switzerland, Hofackerstrasse 30, CH-4132, Muttenz, Switzerland
| | - Armin K Zenker
- University of Applied Sciences and Arts North-western Switzerland, Hofackerstrasse 30, CH-4132, Muttenz, Switzerland.
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44
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Utilizing environmental DNA for wide-range distributions of reproductive area of an invasive terrestrial toad in Ishikari river basin in Japan. Biol Invasions 2021. [DOI: 10.1007/s10530-021-02709-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
AbstractUnderstanding the distribution of invasive species and their reproductive area is crucial for their managements after invasion. While catch and observation surveys are still embraced, environmental DNA (eDNA) has been increasingly utilized as an efficient tool for identifying these species in the wild. In this study, we developed a Bufo-specific eDNA assay for detecting an invasive, toxic, and terrestrial toad species Bufo japonicus formosus in Hokkaido, Japan, and applied it to their reproductive area at watershed scale. The eDNA assay was field-validated in ponds where B. japonicus were observed, as well as in rivers downstream of the reproductive ponds. Thus, the assay provided us an opportunity to screen watersheds that include their reproductive area by collecting downstream water samples. Applying it to the Ishikari river basin, the largest river basin in Hokkaido (c.a., 14,330 km2), we detected toad eDNA at 32 out of 73 sampling sites. They are composed of eleven sites with species observation records nearby (all the sites with observation records within a 500 m radius) and 21 sites without such records. And those eDNA detections were from twelve out of 31 river systems in the entire river basin. A Bayesian, multiscale occupancy model supported high eDNA detectability among those sites. These results suggest that the eDNA assay can efficiently estimate the presence of reproductive area of the terrestrial toad even from a distant downstream of the watershed, and that it provides a powerful means of detecting new reproductive area and monitoring further spread of invasive species.
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Amarasiri M, Furukawa T, Nakajima F, Sei K. Pathogens and disease vectors/hosts monitoring in aquatic environments: Potential of using eDNA/eRNA based approach. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2021; 796:148810. [PMID: 34265610 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2021.148810] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/15/2021] [Revised: 06/20/2021] [Accepted: 06/29/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Infectious diseases are spreading in to previously unreported geographical regions, and are reappeared in regions 75 or 100 years after their last reported case, as a result of environmental changes caused by anthropogenic activities. A pathogen, vector/host monitoring methodology is therefore indispensable in identifying potential transmission sites, providing early warnings and evaluating the human health risks of these infectious diseases in a given area. Recently, environmental DNA (eDNA) and environmental RNA approach (eRNA) have become widespread in monitoring organisms in the environment due to advantages like lower cost, time, and labour requirements. However, eDNA/eRNA based monitoring of pathogens and vectors/hosts using aquatic samples is limited to very few studies. In this review, we summarized the currently available eDNA/eRNA based human and non-human pathogens and vectors/hosts detection studies in aquatic samples. Species-specific shedding, transport, and decay of eDNA/eRNA in aquatic environments which is essential in estimating the abundance of pathogen, vectors/host in focus is also summarized. We also suggest the usage of eDNA/eRNA approach in urban aquatic samples like runoff in identifying the disease vectors/hosts inhabiting in locations which are not accessible easily.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohan Amarasiri
- Laboratory of Environmental Hygiene, Department of Health Science, School of Allied Health Sciences, Kitasato University, 1-15-1, Kitasato, Sagamihara-Minami 252-0373, Japan.
| | - Takashi Furukawa
- Laboratory of Environmental Hygiene, Department of Health Science, School of Allied Health Sciences, Kitasato University, 1-15-1, Kitasato, Sagamihara-Minami 252-0373, Japan
| | - Fumiyuki Nakajima
- Environmental Science Center, The University of Tokyo, Hongo 7-3-1, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo 113-0033, Japan
| | - Kazunari Sei
- Laboratory of Environmental Hygiene, Department of Health Science, School of Allied Health Sciences, Kitasato University, 1-15-1, Kitasato, Sagamihara-Minami 252-0373, Japan
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Perelman ZE, Takahashi MK, Hundermark EL, Parenzan C. An eDNA-Based Assessment of the Impact of a 207,000-Liter Gasoline Spill on Local Populations of Eastern Hellbenders (Cryptobranchus alleganiensis alleganiensis), an Imperiled Giant Salamander. Northeast Nat (Steuben) 2021. [DOI: 10.1656/045.028.0406] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Carol Parenzan
- (Former) Middle Susquehanna Riverkeeper, Sunbury, PA 17801
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Hossack BR, Lemos-Espinal JA, Sigafus BH, Muths E, Carreón Arroyo G, Toyos Martinez D, Hurtado Félix D, Padilla GM, Goldberg CS, Jones TR, Sredl MJ, Chambert T, Rorabaugh JC. Distribution of tiger salamanders in northern Sonora, Mexico: comparison of sampling methods and possible implications for an endangered subspecies. AMPHIBIA-REPTILIA 2021. [DOI: 10.1163/15685381-bja10072] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Abstract
Many aquatic species in the arid USA-Mexico borderlands region are imperiled, but limited information on distributions and threats often hinders management. To provide information on the distribution of the Western Tiger Salamander (Ambystoma mavortium), including the USA-federally endangered Sonoran Tiger Salamander (Ambystoma mavortium stebbinsi), we used traditional (seines, dip-nets) and modern (environmental DNA [eDNA]) methods to sample 91 waterbodies in northern Sonora, Mexico, during 2015-2018. The endemic Sonoran Tiger Salamander is threatened by introgressive hybridization and potential replacement by another sub-species of the Western Tiger Salamander, the non-native Barred Tiger Salamander (A. m. mavortium). Based on occupancy models that accounted for imperfect detection, eDNA sampling provided a similar detection probability (0.82 [95% CI: 0.56-0.94]) as seining (0.83 [0.46-0.96]) and much higher detection than dip-netting (0.09 [0.02-0.23]). Volume of water filtered had little effect on detection, possibly because turbid sites had greater densities of salamanders. Salamanders were estimated to occur at 51 sites in 3 river drainages in Sonora. These results indicate tiger salamanders are much more widespread in northern Sonora than previously documented, perhaps aided by changes in land and water management practices. However, because the two subspecies of salamanders cannot be reliably distinguished based on morphology or eDNA methods that are based on mitochondrial DNA, we are uncertain if we detected only native genotypes or if we documented recent invasion of the area by the non-native sub-species. Thus, there is an urgent need for methods to reliably distinguish the subspecies so managers can identify appropriate interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Blake R. Hossack
- U.S. Geological Survey, Northern Rocky Mountain Science Center, Wildlife Biology Program, University of Montana, Missoula, MT 59812, USA
| | | | - Brent H. Sigafus
- U.S. Geological Survey, Southwest Biological Science Center, Tucson, AZ 85719, USA
| | - Erin Muths
- U.S. Geological Survey, Fort Collins Science Center, Fort Collins, CO 80526, USA
| | | | | | | | | | - Caren S. Goldberg
- School of the Environment, Washington State University, Pullman, WA 99164, USA
| | - Thomas R. Jones
- Arizona Game and Fish Department, 5000 W Carefree Hwy, Phoenix, AZ 85086, USA
| | - Michael J. Sredl
- Retired; Arizona Game and Fish Department, 5000 W Carefree Hwy, Phoenix, AZ 85086, USA
| | - Thierry Chambert
- CEFE, CNRS, Paul Valéry University Montpellier, Montpellier, France
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Cantera I, Decotte JB, Dejean T, Murienne J, Vigouroux R, Valentini A, Brosse S. Characterizing the spatial signal of environmental DNA in river systems using a community ecology approach. Mol Ecol Resour 2021; 22:1274-1283. [PMID: 34724352 DOI: 10.1111/1755-0998.13544] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2020] [Revised: 09/18/2021] [Accepted: 10/19/2021] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Environmental DNA (eDNA) is gaining a growing popularity among scientists but its applicability to biodiversity research and management remains limited in river systems by the lack of knowledge about the spatial extent of the downstream transport of eDNA. Here, we assessed the ability of eDNA inventories to retrieve spatial patterns of fish assemblages along two large and species-rich Neotropical rivers. We first examined overall community variation with distance through the distance decay of similarity and compared this pattern to capture-based samples. We then considered previous knowledge on individual species distributions, and compared it to the eDNA inventories for a set of 53 species. eDNA collected from 28 sites in the Maroni and 25 sites in the Oyapock rivers permitted to retrieve a decline of species similarity with increasing distance between sites. The distance decay of similarity derived from eDNA was similar and even more pronounced than that obtained with capture-based methods (gill-nets). In addition, the species upstream-downstream distribution range derived from eDNA matched to the known distribution of most species. Our results demonstrate that environmental DNA does not represent an integrative measure of biodiversity across the whole upstream river basin but provides a relevant picture of local fish assemblages. Importantly, the spatial signal gathered from eDNA was therefore comparable to that gathered with local capture-based methods, which describes fish fauna over a few hundred metres.
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Affiliation(s)
- Isabel Cantera
- Laboratoire Evolution et Diversité Biologique, Université Toulouse III Paul Sabatier, Toulouse, France
| | | | - Tony Dejean
- Vigilife, Le Bourget-du-Lac, France.,Spygen, Le Bourget-du-Lac, France
| | - Jérôme Murienne
- Laboratoire Evolution et Diversité Biologique, Université Toulouse III Paul Sabatier, Toulouse, France
| | - Régis Vigouroux
- Laboratoire Environnement de Petit Saut, Hydreco, Kourou Cedex, French Guiana
| | | | - Sébastien Brosse
- Laboratoire Evolution et Diversité Biologique, Université Toulouse III Paul Sabatier, Toulouse, France
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Villacorta-Rath C, Hoskin CJ, Strugnell JM, Burrows D. Long distance (>20 km) downstream detection of endangered stream frogs suggests an important role for eDNA in surveying for remnant amphibian populations. PeerJ 2021; 9:e12013. [PMID: 34692243 PMCID: PMC8483009 DOI: 10.7717/peerj.12013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2021] [Accepted: 07/28/2021] [Indexed: 01/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Globally, amphibian species have suffered drastic population declines over the past 40 years. Hundreds of species are now listed as Critically Endangered, with many of these considered "possibly extinct". Most of these species are stream-dwelling frogs inhabiting remote, montane areas, where remnant populations are hard to find using traditional surveys. Environmental DNA (eDNA) could revolutionize surveys for 'missing' and endangered amphibian populations by screening water samples from downstream sections to assess presence in the upstream catchments. However, the utility of this survey technique is dependent on quantifying downstream detection probability and distances. Methods Here we tested downstream detection distances in two endangered stream frogs (Litoria lorica and L. nannotis) that co-occur in a remote stream catchment in north-east Australia, and for which we know precise downstream distributional limits from traditional surveys. Importantly, the two last populations of L. lorica persist in this catchment: one small (~1,000 frogs) and one very small (~100 frogs). We conducted eDNA screening at a series of sites kilometers downstream from the populations using precipitation from two fixed water volumes (15 and 100 mL) and via water filtering (mean 1,480 L). Results We detected L. nannotis and the small L. lorica population (~1,000 frogs) at most sampling sites, including 22.8 km downstream. The filtration method was highly effective for far-downstream detection, as was precipitation from 100 mL water samples, which also resulted in consistent detections at the far-downstream sites (including to 22.8 km). In contrast, we had limited downstream detection success for the very small L. lorica population (~100 frogs). Discussion The ecological aspects of our study system, coupled with thorough traditional surveys, enabled us to measure downstream eDNA detection distances with accuracy. We demonstrate that eDNA from a small population of approximately 1,000 frogs can be detected as far as 22.8 km downstream from the population. Water filtration is considered best for eDNA detection of rare aquatic species-indeed it was effective in this study-but we also achieved far-downstream detections when precipitating eDNA from 100 mL water samples. Collecting small water volumes for subsequent precipitation in the lab is more practical than filtration when surveying remote areas. Our downstream detection distances (>20 km) suggest eDNA is a valuable tool for detecting rare stream amphibians. We provide recommendations on optimal survey methods.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cecilia Villacorta-Rath
- Centre for Tropical Water and Aquatic Ecosystem Research (TropWATER), James Cook University, Townsville, QLD, Australia
| | - Conrad J Hoskin
- College of Science and Engineering, James Cook University, Townsville, QLD, Australia
| | - Jan M Strugnell
- College of Science and Engineering, James Cook University, Townsville, QLD, Australia.,Centre for Sustainable Tropical Fisheries and Aquaculture, College of Science and Engineering, James Cook University, Townsville, QLD, Australia
| | - Damien Burrows
- Centre for Tropical Water and Aquatic Ecosystem Research (TropWATER), James Cook University, Townsville, QLD, Australia
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Yates MC, Cristescu ME, Derry AM. Integrating physiology and environmental dynamics to operationalize environmental DNA (eDNA) as a means to monitor freshwater macro-organism abundance. Mol Ecol 2021; 30:6531-6550. [PMID: 34592014 DOI: 10.1111/mec.16202] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/24/2021] [Revised: 09/03/2021] [Accepted: 09/17/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Research has demonstrated consistent positive correlations between organism abundance and absolute environmental DNA (eDNA) concentrations. Robust correlations in laboratory experiments indicate strong functional links, suggesting the potential for eDNA to monitor organism abundance in nature. However, correlations between absolute eDNA concentrations and organism abundance in nature tend to be weaker because myriad biotic and abiotic factors influence steady-state eDNA concentrations, decoupling its direct functional link with abundance. Additional technical challenges can also weaken correlations between relative organism abundance and relative eDNA data derived from metabarcoding. Future research must account for these factors to improve the inference of organism abundance from eDNA, including integrating the effects of organism physiology on eDNA production, eDNA dynamics in lentic/lotic systems, and key environmental parameters that impact estimated steady-state concentrations. Additionally, it is critical to manage expectations surrounding the accuracy and precision that eDNA can provide - eDNA, for example, cannot provide abundance estimates comparable to intensively managed freshwater fisheries that enumerate every individual fish. Recent developments, however, are encouraging. Current methods could provide meaningful information regarding qualitative conservation thresholds and emergent research has demonstrated that eDNA concentrations in natural ecosystems can provide rough quantitative estimates of abundance, particularly when models integrate physiology and/or eDNA dynamics. Operationalizing eDNA to infer abundance will probably require more than simple correlations with organism biomass/density. Nevertheless, the future is promising - models that integrate eDNA dynamics in nature could represent an effective means to infer abundance, particularly when traditional methods are considered too "costly" or difficult to obtain.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Alison M Derry
- Université du Québec à Montréal, Montréal, Québec, Canada
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