Comparing in situ Detection of Invasive Zebra Mussels Using eDNA and Detection Canines
Channel: Conservation and Adaptation Resources Toolbox
Date: 2023-03-17

Early detection and rapid response represent cornerstones of effective management of biological invasions in freshwater ecosystems, and tools that increase the sensitivity and efficiency of species detection benefit from such efforts. We compared the sensitivity of two methods for in situ detection of invasive zebra mussels (Dreissena polymorpha) in central Texas reservoirs: environmental DNA (eDNA) analysis and canine detection. Although eDNA analysis is regularly applied to environmental samples in zebra mussel detection and management programs, canine detection is typically limited to inspection for adult mussels on watercraft, and our work represents one of the first attempts to detect veligers (i.e., free-swimming larval stages) and other microscopic zebra mussel material in environmental samples. We collected veligers from Canyon Lake, Texas and prepared a dilution series of veliger concentrations in both spring water and filtered lake water. From these samples, we quantified zebra mussel eDNA with a species-specific hydrolysis probe qPCR assay. We assessed sensitivity of six canines using a blind olfactometer and software-automated adaptive threshold procedure. Comparison of methods will reveal strengths and weaknesses of each approach and help develop the most efficient and sensitive approach (or combination of approaches) for invasive species detection. 

Presented by Debi Deshon, Mussel Dogs, and Matthew Barnes, Texas Tech University
March 15, 2023

00:02:56 Environmental DNA by Matthew Barnes
00:24:46 Mussel Dogs vs eDNA by Debi DeShon