Dynamics of (e)DNA
Abstract
We propose to continue development of methodology for species detection and identification of cetaceans using environmental DNA (eDNA) collected from seawater. Building on success of our previous project (Award Number: N000141512297), we will use droplet digital (dd)PCR to amplify and sequence species of cetaceans in both open-ocean and coastal habitats. Referred to here as "eDNA barcoding", the potential to confirm species identity and, in some cases, population identity, from environmental sampling will complement the interpretation of acoustic and visual surveys now routinely used to monitor cetacean habitat. Specificially, we have made collaborative arrangement for sampling logistics to: continue assessment and refinement of open-ocean "focal sampling" of eDNA, including "at depth" sampling for identification of deep-diving, cryptic species (e.g., beaked whales)with logistical support from Northeast Fisheries Science Center and Pacific Islands Fisheries Science Center; and initiate assessment of the spatial and temporal dynamics of eDNA for coastal community of cetaceans in Cape Cod Bay, with a specific focus on North Atlantic right whales (Eubalaena glacialis), using the habitat sampling grid developed by Center for Coastal Studies, with support from aerial surveys. To our knowledge, this will be the first attempt to characterize dynamics of cetacean eDNA at a community scale. This methodological development is intended to improve detection and identification of cetaceans in both coastal and open-ocean habitats and identify the species of unknown cetacean vocalizations to improve the accuracy of ongoing U.S. Navy passive acoustic monitoring efforts.
Document Details
- Document Type
- DoD Grant Award
- Publication Date
- Sep 04, 2018
- Source ID
- N000141812808
Entities
People
- Charles Baker
Organizations
- Office of Naval Research
- Oregon State University
- United States Navy