Luke Barron1, Dr Jeffrey Go1, Dr Brendon O’Rourke2, Lillian Brancalion2, Melissa Walker1, Ben Rampano1
1NSW Department of Primary Industries – Aquatic Biosecurity Policy and Programs, Port Stephens Fisheries Institute, Port Stephens, Australia, 2Elizabeth Macarthur Agricultural Institute (EMAI), Menangle, Australia
The NSW Department of Primary Industries (DPI) is collaborating to develop a five-year marine pest species surveillance plan in consultation with key expertise and stakeholders. A key objective of this plan is the early detection of, and early response to, high priority marine pests. Technological advancements have made it possible to detect single species using eDNA sampling, however confidence needs to be established in achieving this routinely, and for a variety of organisms. This may be achieved through assay validation to ensure high sensitivity for the detection of target pest species, and high specificity to avoid cross reaction against non-target species.
While eDNA sampling promises increased efficiencies and results, the implementation is not as straightforward as it seems. This presentation focuses on the proposed strategic prioritisation of target marine pest species and offers options for the adaptation of the eDNA sampling technology to suit various locations and habitats. By exploring similar case studies around the world and drawing on the expertise of specialist staff at the NSW Department of Primary Industries Elizabeth Macarthur Agricultural Institute (EMAI), the team will take you through the State Government’s current process for eDNA sampling, the expected challenges, and a look to future opportunities, as we seek to adopt this technology as a key surveillance tool.
Biography:
Biographies to come