ranacapa: An R package and Shiny web app to explore environmental DNA data with exploratory statistics and...

Area of Science:

• Ecology and conservation biology
• Bioinformatics
• Environmental science

Background:

• Environmental DNA (eDNA) metabarcoding is increasingly used in biodiversity monitoring, education, and public outreach.
• Engaging diverse audiences like natural resource managers, students, and community scientists with eDNA results can be challenging due to the need for bioinformatics expertise.
• Bridging the gap between complex eDNA data and accessible interpretation is crucial for broader application.

Purpose of the Study:

• To introduce the R package ranacapa, featuring a Shiny web app designed for exploratory biodiversity analyses and visualizations of eDNA data.
• To provide a user-friendly tool that simplifies the interaction with and interpretation of eDNA metabarcoding results for a non-specialist audience.
• To demonstrate the utility of ranacapa in facilitating community engagement with primary research involving eDNA.

Main Methods:

• Development of the ranacapa R package with an integrated Shiny web application.
• The app utilizes a taxonomy-by-sample matrix and a metadata file as input.
• Implementation of interactive figures and community ecology analyses within the web app.

Main Results:

• The ranacapa package provides an accessible platform for exploratory biodiversity analyses of eDNA data.
• Interactive visualizations and community ecology analyses are readily available to users.
• The value of ranacapa was demonstrated through engagement with two community partner groups.

Conclusions:

• The ranacapa R package and Shiny app effectively lower the barrier to entry for analyzing and visualizing eDNA metabarcoding data.
• This tool empowers a wider range of users, including community scientists and naturalists, to engage with primary biodiversity research.
• ranacapa enhances the accessibility and utility of eDNA data for ecological research and conservation efforts.