Improved detection of an alien invasive species through environmental DNA barcoding: the example of the American bullfrogLithobates catesbeianus

• DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-2664.2012.02171.x
• Publication Date: 2012-10-03T12:40:53Z
• Authors: Tony Dejean; Alice Valentini; Christian Miquel; Pierre Taberlet; Eva Bellemain; Claude Miaud
• Keywords: Lithobates; Environmental DNA; DNA Barcoding; Alien species

Summary 1. Alien invasive species (AIS) are one of the major causes biodiversity loss and global homogenization. Once an AIS becomes established, costs control can be extremely high complete eradication is not always achieved. The ability to detect a at low density greatly improves success decreases both impact on ecosystems. 2. In this study, we compare sensitivity traditional field methods, based auditory visual encounter surveys, with environmental DNA (eDNA) survey for detection American bullfrog Rana catesbeiana = Lithobates catesbeianus , which in south‐western France. 3. We demonstrate that eDNA method valuable surpasses amphibian methods terms sampling effort. was detected 38 sites using molecular method, compared seven diurnal nocturnal suggesting surveys have strongly underestimated distribution bullfrog. 4. Synthesis applications . approach permits early alien (AIS), very densities any life stage, particularly important rare and/or secretive aquatic species. This also used confirm operations better identify distributions vulnerable species, making relevant tool inventory management.