Environmental DNA (eDNA) Monitoring for Sturgeon Populations

Many aquatic species are difficult to detect and monitor due to rarity or secretive habits.  Genetic screening of environmental DNA, DNA shed by an organism into its environment, offers a useful way to detect a species of interest in an aquatic system.  Water samples are collected, filtered, and screened for the presence of DNA from a particular organism.  This capability has been successfully employed for detection of invasive species such as Asian carp and zebra mussels, and is now being expanded into use for threatened and endangered species.  The US Army Corps of Engineers Environmental Lab is currently developing an eDNA assay for sturgeon.  Eight generalized mitochondrial genetic markers have been developed based on available sturgeon genome data, and successfully tested in six North American sturgeon species.  More extensive sequencing within species will provide data for development of species-specific markers.  Utilization of eDNA testing can be used to focus more traditional sampling and monitoring efforts, guide stocking management decisions, and aid in tracking seasonal movements of anadromous species like sturgeon.