Mr Frankie Andrews1, Dr. Kerry Borkin2, Mr. Jamie McAuley2, Dr Andrew Veale, Dr Ang McGaughran1
1University of Waikato, Hamilton, Aotearoa / New Zealand, 2Department of Conservation, Wellington, Aoteoroa / New Zealand
Biography:
Frankie Andrews is a Masters’ student in the Ecology and Biodiversity programme at the University of Waikato, Hamilton (New Zealand). His research focuses on the optimisation of eDNA techniques for dietary analyses of invasive mustelids and biodiversity assessments of geothermal waters. Originally from Baltimore, Maryland in the United States, he has a diverse educational background, with bachelors’ degrees in Biological Sciences, PPE (Philosophy, Politics, and Economics), and Economics.
Abstract:
Invasive weasels and stoats (family Mustelidae) are two of the most destructive invasive predators in Aoteoroa New Zealand. These cunning carnivores have contributed to substantial declines in native bird, reptile, and invertebrate populations, but their elusive nature has limited our understanding of their dietary preferences, and this problem is exacerbated by the fact that >50% of captured individuals typically have empty guts. In this presentation, I will detail the results of an ongoing eDNA metabarcoding study performed on stomach contents and digestive tract swabs of captured weasels and stoats. These individuals were sourced from inside and outside so-called “predator-free fencing,” allowing for comparative analysis of how mustelid dietary habits are actually impacted by conservation measures. As well as informing management policy and highlighting which native species or groups are more vulnerable to mustelid predation, my research provides a better understanding of how prey eDNA persists in predator digestive tracts. If successful, this technique could be leveraged towards other scenarios in which gut contents are similarly unavailable. Overall, my research contributes to the ever-growing body of work using eDNA techniques for the purposes of conservation and invasive species management.