Researchers at the University of Queensland have developed new tools that could change the way conservation scientists monitor and protect some of Australia’s most threatened species.
Associate Professor Celine Frere, from UQ’s School of Environment, led a team that managed to capture airborne environmental DNA (eDNA) — DNA released by organisms into the environment — to detect the presence of wild species, including koalas, in their natural habitats.
“Current methods for tracking wild animal populations, such as thermal drones, detection dogs and camera traps, are fundamental for conservation, but are often costly and labor-intensive,” says Frere.
“Our easy-to-implement airborne eDNA sampling tools can detect the presence of several wild animal species, specifically koalas, opossums, foxes, domestic dogs and rabbits, at a fraction of the cost,” she adds.
The study was conducted at four sites within the local government area of Redlands due to the known presence of koalas in the region.
“We designed air-filter sampling systems equipped with sterilized gauze and placed them at various locations across the region,” says Frere.
“Cheesecloth allows air to pass with little force and can collect and retain particles easily,” she adds.
“Air samples were collected and analyzed using advanced genetic techniques to identify the species present in the area,” she further reveals.
Frere explains that this is a non-invasive and scalable method for collecting essential data on wildlife presence and biodiversity.
“This technology could significantly improve the detection and monitoring of endangered species, aiding conservation efforts and the development of effective management strategies,” she asserts.
“Although eDNA has been successfully used in aquatic environments for decades, its application on land is still emerging,” she adds.
Researchers are continuing to develop ways to improve the cost-effectiveness of air sampling.
“By comparing our study with conventional observation methods, we can understand the trade-offs necessary to design the most powerful, efficient, and economical solution possible,” says Frere.
“We are now working toward developing toolkits for other threatened Australian species, such as the gliders,” she concludes.
The study was published in The Journal of Applied Ecology.
