Using eDNA to understand predator–prey interactions influenced by invasive species

• DOI: 10.1007/s00442-023-05434-6
• Publication Date: 2023-08-18T15:58:48Z
• Authors: Maria Riaz; Dan Warren; Claudia Wittwer; Berardino Cocchia...; Inga Hundertmark; Tobias Erik Reiners; Sven Klimpel; Markus Pfenninger; Imran Khaliq; Carsten Nowak
• Keywords: Environmental DNA; Lepomis

Abstract Invasive predatory species may alter population dynamic processes of their prey and impact biological communities ecosystem processes. Revealing biotic interactions, however, including the relationship between predator prey, is a difficult task, in particular for that are hard to monitor. Here, we present case study documents utility environmental DNA analysis (eDNA) assess predator–prey interactions two invasive fishes ( Lepomis gibbosus , Pseudorasbora parva ) potential amphibian species, Triturus cristatus Pelobates fuscus ). We used species-specific TaqMan assays quantitative assessment eDNA concentrations from water samples collected 89 sites across 31 ponds during three consecutive months local hotspot Germany. found negative predators (fishes) (amphibians) using Monte-Carlo tests. Our highlights application reveal confirms hypothesis observed declines be at least partly caused by recently introduced fishes. findings have important consequences conservation management highlight usefulness approaches ecological guide targeted action.