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Using eDNA to understand predator-prey interactions influenced by invasive species.

Maria Riaz1,2,3, Dan Warren4,5, Claudia Wittwer6,7,8

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Environmental DNA (eDNA) analysis revealed invasive fish predation on amphibians. This study confirms invasive fishes contribute to amphibian declines, informing conservation efforts.

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Area of Science:

  • Ecology
  • Conservation Biology
  • Environmental Science

Background:

  • Invasive species disrupt ecosystems by altering prey population dynamics.
  • Assessing predator-prey interactions is challenging, especially for elusive species.
  • Environmental DNA (eDNA) analysis offers a novel approach to detect species presence and interactions.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To evaluate the effectiveness of eDNA analysis in assessing predator-prey interactions between invasive fishes and native amphibians.
  • To investigate the impact of invasive fishes (Lepomis gibbosus, Pseudorasbora parva) on amphibian populations (Triturus cristatus, Pelobates fuscus).

Main Methods:

  • Quantitative eDNA analysis using species-specific TaqMan assays.
  • Water samples collected from 89 sites across 31 ponds over three months in Germany.
  • Monte-Carlo statistical tests to analyze eDNA concentration relationships.

Main Results:

  • A significant negative correlation was found between the eDNA concentrations of invasive fish predators and amphibian prey.
  • eDNA data supported the hypothesis that invasive fishes are a contributing factor to local amphibian declines.
  • The study demonstrated the utility of eDNA for detecting ecological interactions in aquatic ecosystems.

Conclusions:

  • eDNA analysis is a powerful tool for understanding predator-prey dynamics, particularly for difficult-to-monitor species.
  • Invasive fishes pose a threat to native amphibian populations, necessitating targeted conservation and management strategies.
  • This research underscores the importance of eDNA in guiding effective conservation actions for vulnerable species.