Dr Erin Hahn1, Dr Rachel Tulloch1
1CSIRO National Research Collections Australia, Black Mountain, Australia
Biography:
Dr Erin Hahn is a Research Scientist at the CSIRO's Australian National Wildlife Collection leading projects aimed at developing reliable platforms for airborne eDNA monitoring. She recently completed a postdoc at CSIRO focused on extracting genomic and epigenomic data from century-old formalin-preserved museum specimens. Prior to joining CSIRO she completed a PhD at the University of Arizona where she received a National Science Foundation Interdisciplinary Graduate Research Traineeship to support her study of temporal population genetics and epigenetics of endangered Sonoran pronghorn. Erin is a passionate science communicator and Science and Technology Australia Superstar of STEM alumnus.
Abstract:
Airborne environmental DNA (airborne eDNA) technology represents a promising advancement in biodiversity monitoring, offering non-invasive methods for detecting and studying organisms within terrestrial ecosystems. By capturing genetic material from air samples, airborne eDNA can assess biodiversity, track species, and monitor ecosystem health without the need for direct observation or invasive sampling. Despite its potential, airborne eDNA research is still in its early stages, requiring significant work to transition from experimental studies to practical applications. In June 2024, the Southern eDNA Society hosted over 100 local and international researchers for a workshop to evaluate the current state of airborne eDNA research and chart a course for future development. The discussions covered identification of parameters requiring characterisation, imagining fit-for-purpose airborne eDNA collection platforms, and integrating airborne eDNA data into environmental management frameworks. Here we summarise the workshop's findings and recommendations, focusing on the unique challenges and opportunities associated with airborne eDNA. The workshop's actionable recommendations aim to improve understanding of airborne eDNA ecology and optimise sampling strategies in concert with early and sustained stakeholder engagement. By advancing airborne eDNA technology, we can significantly improve biodiversity monitoring and conservation efforts, providing new tools to protect and manage ecosystems more effectively.