Integration of Environmental DNA (eDNA) Data into the USGS Nonindigenous Aquatic Species Database
USGS and Department of the Interior partners have added a new, advanced capability to the early detection and rapid response tool set – the integration of environmental DNA and sighting data in the USGS Nonindigenous Aquatic Species database.
The Science Issue and Relevance
Environmental DNA (eDNA) is the genetic material that living organisms leave behind in the water, soil, or air as they move and live in their environments. It provides an opportunity to perform high sensitivity monitoring for hard-to-detect, or cryptic, invasive species. To improve communication of detections, we have worked towards including eDNA data in the USGS Nonindigenous Aquatic Species (NAS) database, which currently maps and displays the distribution of non-native aquatic species detected through visual identification or physical capture. The expanded utility of the NAS database provides a centralized location for sharing invasive species eDNA data, and in the process, serves as a data repository to be used to inform future study design and management decisions. Working with the invasive species and eDNA community (researchers, managers, end-users), we identified minimum ad hoc standards and created an application process to ensure the standards and best practices are used to produce high-quality data to be displayed in the NAS database.
Methodology for Addressing the Issue
This project has led to the production of an online guidance document, a submission application, and data submission forms, accessed via the NAS database website. The guidance document details the application and data submission process to have eDNA data admitted to the database. The application consists of a series of questions which require the applicant to describe their adherence to the use of ad hoc standards, controls, and best practices during the production of their eDNA datasets. We engaged stakeholders through iterative feedback, both from selected individuals who were asked to review the materials, as well as broader groups who provided comments via a survey.
Future Steps
The eDNA web viewer, implemented through the NAS database structure, will provide long-term access to the data uploaded by researchers, just as it has done with data from visual observations of non-native aquatic species. The information displayed on the NAS website is available for viewing by any public entity without cost. Minimum ad hoc standards for eDNA metabarcoding will be developed and added next. Our goal is to continue to update methods for eDNA reporting as the field continues to evolve.
Environmental DNA (eDNA): Combining Technology and Biology to Detect Aquatic Invasive Species and Pathogens
Implementing FAIR practices: Storing and displaying eDNA data in the USGS Nonindigenous Aquatic Species database
Establishing standards and integrating environmental DNA (eDNA) data into the USGS Nonindigenous Aquatic Species database
Environmental DNA (eDNA) Sampling Improves Occurrence and Detection Estimates of Invasive Burmese Pythons and Other Constrictor Snakes in Florida
Nonindigenous Aquatic Species (NAS) Program
Efficacy of eDNA as an Early Detection and Rapid Response Indicator for Burmese Pythons in the Northern Greater Everglades Ecosystem
Nonindigenous Aquatic Species Database and Website (NAS)
Using Environmental DNA for Burmese Python Detection Probabilities and Range-Delimitation in Southern Florida
USGS and Department of the Interior partners have added a new, advanced capability to the early detection and rapid response tool set – the integration of environmental DNA and sighting data in the USGS Nonindigenous Aquatic Species database.
The Science Issue and Relevance
Environmental DNA (eDNA) is the genetic material that living organisms leave behind in the water, soil, or air as they move and live in their environments. It provides an opportunity to perform high sensitivity monitoring for hard-to-detect, or cryptic, invasive species. To improve communication of detections, we have worked towards including eDNA data in the USGS Nonindigenous Aquatic Species (NAS) database, which currently maps and displays the distribution of non-native aquatic species detected through visual identification or physical capture. The expanded utility of the NAS database provides a centralized location for sharing invasive species eDNA data, and in the process, serves as a data repository to be used to inform future study design and management decisions. Working with the invasive species and eDNA community (researchers, managers, end-users), we identified minimum ad hoc standards and created an application process to ensure the standards and best practices are used to produce high-quality data to be displayed in the NAS database.
Methodology for Addressing the Issue
This project has led to the production of an online guidance document, a submission application, and data submission forms, accessed via the NAS database website. The guidance document details the application and data submission process to have eDNA data admitted to the database. The application consists of a series of questions which require the applicant to describe their adherence to the use of ad hoc standards, controls, and best practices during the production of their eDNA datasets. We engaged stakeholders through iterative feedback, both from selected individuals who were asked to review the materials, as well as broader groups who provided comments via a survey.
Future Steps
The eDNA web viewer, implemented through the NAS database structure, will provide long-term access to the data uploaded by researchers, just as it has done with data from visual observations of non-native aquatic species. The information displayed on the NAS website is available for viewing by any public entity without cost. Minimum ad hoc standards for eDNA metabarcoding will be developed and added next. Our goal is to continue to update methods for eDNA reporting as the field continues to evolve.