Mr Benjamin Heyward1, Dr Kathryn Dawkins2, Dr Nicole White1, Dr Mahsa Mousavi-Derazmahalleh1, Assoc Prof Philip Bateman1, Mr Joshua Newton1, Professor Morten Allentoft1
1Trace and Environmental DNA (TrEnD) Laboratory, Curtin University, Perth, Australia, 2eDNA Frontiers, Curtin University, Perth, Australia
Biography:
Ben is a PhD student in the TrEnD Laboratory at Curtin University (WA) and completed his honours on the decay rate of Pilbara olive python DNA. His PhD project seeks to further investigate the genomics of this species, with a focus on whole-genome studies, biomonitoring, and bioinformatics.
Abstract:
Australia is a hotspot for reptile diversity and considered a priority area for their conservation, with many endemic species. One such species is the Pilbara olive python, a large and vulnerable snake restricted to the Pilbara region of north-western Western Australia. The analysis of environmental DNA (eDNA) is an attractive method for the biomonitoring of these cryptic reptiles, however reptile eDNA is still relatively understudied and poorly understood. Here, we describe some key challenges and insights in the biomonitoring of the Pilbara olive python, including the development of a species-specific assay and a comparison with metabarcoding results from the field. An evaluation of substrates is also being carried out, with preliminary data indicating spider webs and surface rollers are more effective for the biomonitoring of the Pilbara olive python than soil and air. Through these results we facilitate further studies and streamline the biomonitoring of this iconic reptile.