Water: Invertebrate metabarcoding / biomonitoring

eDNA water testing offers an innovative and highly effective method for monitoring invertebrate species in aquatic ecosystems, providing ecologists and conservationists with a non-invasive, efficient way to assess biodiversity and track the health of freshwater environments. By targeting the Cytochrome c Oxidase I (COI) gene, a mitochondrial marker widely used for species identification, this technique allows for the detection of invertebrate DNA in water samples. The COI gene’s high resolution enables the identification of a broad range of invertebrate species, including those that are difficult to observe directly or in early life stages. This method is particularly useful for monitoring species that are cryptic, rare, or present in low abundance, allowing for comprehensive assessments of invertebrate diversity without the need for time-consuming, traditional sampling methods.

For conservationists working to protect and restore freshwater habitats, COI eDNA water testing offers a powerful tool for tracking invertebrate populations, detecting invasive species, and assessing changes in community composition due to environmental stressors or pollution. Invertebrates are key indicators of ecosystem health, playing essential roles in nutrient cycling, organic matter decomposition, and providing food sources for higher trophic levels. By integrating COI eDNA testing into their monitoring programs, ecologists and conservationists gain accurate, real-time data on invertebrate biodiversity, enabling them to make more informed decisions about conservation strategies and habitat management. This approach supports large-scale monitoring of aquatic ecosystems, particularly in remote or difficult-to-access areas, ultimately helping to protect and preserve vital invertebrate communities and the ecosystems they sustain.