Nicola Pyper1, Dr Ang McGaughran1
1University Of Waikato, Hamilton, New Zealand
The brown bullhead catfish (Ameiurus nebulosus) is an invasive freshwater species that has become prolific in the Bay of Plenty and Waikato regions of New Zealand. The need to detect, monitor, and control such invasive populations has spurred a demand for cost-effective, time-efficient, accurate, and easy-to-apply methods of data collection. Environmental DNA is relatively rapid and inexpensive when compared to traditional monitoring methods, and, therefore, has the potential to support ongoing efforts to manage invasive populations.
Our study compared eDNA with conventional methods of physical netting or trapping at multiple sampling locations in the Bay of Plenty region to determine whether any of the trialled methods produce semi-quantitative results. In addition, we tested different methods of eDNA sample collection, comparing results obtained from filtering varying volumes of water, and from using different sizes of filter. We also compared four methods of eDNA sample analysis: quantitative PCR, digital PCR, a multi-species DNA metabarcoding assay, and a catfish-specific metabarcoding assay. In today’s talk, I will discuss these results and how they impact recommendations for optimal sampling protocols in a freshwater environment.
Based on our study outcomes, we will apply a refined sampling and analysis protocol to the Waikato region in 2023 to assess the spatial variability of our data. Overall, we will develop a protocol that can be applied to the monitoring of invasive catfish populations throughout New Zealand, and inform the development and use of eDNA methodology for the monitoring of other invasive freshwater species.
Biography:
Biographies to come