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Estimation of fish biomass using environmental DNA.
Teruhiko Takahara1, Toshifumi Minamoto, Hiroki Yamanaka
1Research Institute for Humanity and Nature, Kyoto, Japan. takahara@hiroshima-u.ac.jp
Plos One
|May 8, 2012
Summary
Environmental DNA (eDNA) can estimate fish biomass. Researchers found a positive correlation between carp eDNA concentration and biomass, suggesting a non-invasive method for ecosystem management.
Area of Science:
- Aquatic ecology
- Molecular ecology
Background:
- Environmental DNA (eDNA) is increasingly used for species detection.
- A hypothesis suggests fish eDNA release correlates with biomass, enabling biomass estimation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop and validate an eDNA method for estimating common carp (Cyprinus carpio L.) biomass.
- To assess the relationship between eDNA concentration and carp biomass in controlled and natural environments.
Main Methods:
- Laboratory experiments in aquaria to determine eDNA equilibrium and temperature effects.
- Field experiments in ponds and a natural lagoon to correlate eDNA concentration with carp biomass.
- Statistical analysis to link eDNA distribution with environmental factors like water temperature.
Main Results:
- eDNA concentration reached equilibrium within 6 days in aquaria, unaffected by temperature.
- A positive correlation was observed between eDNA concentration and carp biomass in both aquaria and ponds.
- Carp eDNA distribution in a natural lagoon was influenced by water temperature.
Conclusions:
- eDNA concentration is a reliable proxy for estimating common carp biomass.
- This non-invasive method provides rapid biomass estimation, supporting ecosystem management and conservation efforts.
- Water temperature influences the distribution of carp eDNA in natural aquatic environments.
