Early detection and rapid response to aquatic invasive species and species at risk using environmental (e)DNA and metabarcoding

Detection of aquatic invasive species (AIS) and species at risk (SAR) is frequently hindered by the low abundance of these organisms in the environment and sporadic distribution. Utilizing environmental DNA (eDNA) to detect these rare organisms is emerging as a way to overcome these challenges.

This project will develop methods and tools to implement eDNA detection panels based on quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) and metabarcoding to rapidly and sensitively detect relevant AIS and SAR. Completing this research will arm Alberta with world-leading tools to combat invasive animals and plants - even those that have not arrived to our Province.