eDNA in subterranean ecosystems: Applications, technical aspects, and future prospects.

Area of Science:

• Ecology
• Molecular Biology
• Conservation Science

Background:

• Biomonitoring is essential for ecosystem assessment and conservation.
• Environmental DNA (eDNA) metabarcoding is a reliable molecular tool for biodiversity assessment.
• Subterranean ecosystems remain understudied due to accessibility challenges.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the application and potential of eDNA methods in subterranean ecosystems (groundwaters and caves).
• To address current knowledge gaps and future directions for eDNA in subsurface environments.
• To explore conceptual and technical aspects of eDNA for subterranean biodiversity and ecology.

Main Methods:

• Review of existing literature on eDNA metabarcoding in subterranean environments.
• Analysis of eDNA characteristics, applications, and limitations in subsurface settings.
• Comparison of eDNA with traditional sampling techniques for subterranean biota.

Main Results:

• eDNA metabarcoding is a promising, albeit underutilized, method for subterranean biodiversity assessment.
• Challenges in subterranean eDNA studies include accessibility and the cryptic nature of species.
• Careful application of eDNA, combined with traditional methods, can significantly enhance community characterization.

Conclusions:

• eDNA analysis offers critical insights into subterranean ecosystem assemblages and rare species detection.
• This method is vital for the preservation of both subterranean and surface ecosystems.
• Future research should focus on overcoming current limitations and expanding eDNA applications in caves and groundwaters.