Use of eDNA as a tool for genetic diversity assessment of exploited marine species in Asturias, Spain
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What is eDNA?
What is eDNA?
Environmental DNA or eDNA is DNA that is released into the environment (through epithelial cells, secretion of fluids or mucus, excrement or gills) which can be extracted directly from a sample of water or sediment. It allows the species which are present in the ecosystem to be closely monitored.
Applications of eDNA
Single species PCR
Single species PCR
For detection of a target species, a single species PCR like qualitative or quantitative (qPCR) and digital droplet (ddPCR) is used. It is much quicker, cheaper but limited to the identification of a single organism. This is essential for identification of endemic or endangered species.
For detection of a target species, a single species PCR like qualitative or quantitative (qPCR) and digital droplet (ddPCR) is used. It is much quicker, cheaper but limited to the identification of a single organism. This is essential for identification of endemic or endangered species.
eDNA Metabarcoding
eDNA Metabarcoding
For assessing diversity of a particular taxon, eDNA metabarcoding is used for identification of multiple species in a sample but more complex to interpret. It is crucial for assessment of population and community structure as well as to monitor real-time changes in the population.
For assessing diversity of a particular taxon, eDNA metabarcoding is used for identification of multiple species in a sample but more complex to interpret. It is crucial for assessment of population and community structure as well as to monitor real-time changes in the population.
What about the exploited marine species in Asturias?
What about the exploited marine species in Asturias?
Common Octopus
Common Octopus
European Eel
European Eel
Artisanal fisheries or small-scale fisheries (SSF) are commercial fisheries important for local consumption and export. Threatened species like common octopus (Octopus vulgaris) and European eel (Anguilla anguilla) are economically valuable species that act as the foundation of SSF in Asturias, Spain. But there is a current lack of data on the status of their populations around Asturias and hence non-invasive eDNA studies are required to assess their health status and biodiversity. Also, the European eel is critically endangered due to the parasite Anguillicola crassus but it has been hypothesized that eDNA can be used a non-invasive tool to detect diseases. As part of the ECOS(i)FOOD project, the University of Oviedo in partnership with EcoHydros aims to use eDNA to tackle the challenges in conservation and management of exploited marine species.
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