Ecological Health and Freshwater Pathogen Using eDNA Metabarcoding: A Preliminary Assessment for Environmental...

Area of Science:

• Environmental Science
• Microbiology
• Ecotoxicology

Background:

• River water contamination is a significant source of disease outbreaks globally.
• Assessing riverine ecosystems is crucial for public health and environmental management.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the environmental health of the Perak River using environmental DNA (eDNA) analysis.
• To identify microbial communities and potential pathogens in river water.
• To inform pollution management and conservation strategies.

Main Methods:

• Water samples were collected from the Perak River.
• Environmental DNA (eDNA) was extracted.
• Metabarcoding and sequencing (16S rRNA and 18S rRNA) were used to analyze bacterial and eukaryotic communities.

Main Results:

• 4045 bacterial operational taxonomic units (OTUs) and 3422 eukaryotic OTUs were identified.
• Abnormal abundances of Serratia marcescens and Strombidium suggested potential organic and heavy metal pollution.
• 35 potential pathogens (bacteria, fungi, parasites) were detected, posing risks to human and animal health.

Conclusions:

• The study provides insights into the Perak River's ecological status and biodiversity.
• Detected pathogens and pollution indicators necessitate targeted surveillance and management strategies.
• Findings support the One Health approach by linking environmental health to human and animal well-being.