Abstract
Environmental DNA (eDNA) is a powerful tool for biodiversity assessments and the early detection of aquatic invasive species (AIS), but eDNA assays are missing for most aquatic plants. Aquatic plants are key indicators of ecosystem health and popular targets for biodiversity monitoring and restoration worldwide. Invasive plants are often accidentally introduced into new waterbodies at distinct points of use, like boat landings. At new invasion sites, traditional field based plants surveys typically detect the invasive only after the plant is established in high abundance and therefore difficult or impossible to eradicate. Using eDNA metabarcoding can provide detection data simultaneously for entire communities, including invasives. The MinION is a portable sequencer that allows multiple species identification completely in the field, with results available within 1-2 days, can be conducted by field personnel with appropriate training. We propose to identify metabarcoding markers and optimize MinION protocols to detect up to 40 invasive so resource managers across Minnesota could quickly conduct eDNA surveillance of waterbodies with high invasion risk or management needs. The tool would aid early detection and rapid response of AIS, as well as initiate eDNA biodiversity assessments.