Project:

Demonstrating the Efficacy of Airborne eDNA by Detecting Locally Extinct Mesic and Riparian Species in an Urban Forest

Students:

Leandre Aguilar, Kenya Davis, Nicholas Valdez, Zachary Vetsch

School:

Hostos Lincoln Academy, The Bronx

Mentors:

Allison Granberry

Abstract:

Environmental DNA (eDNA) focuses on the extraction and analysis of DNA from environmental samples such as soil, water, and air. By using eDNA metabarcoding, more species can be detected in an area than if other methods were used. A 2015 inventory of the old-growth forest at the New York Botanical Garden found that five fern species present in 1899 had gone locally extinct. We plan to compare eDNA sequence data to the 1899 and 2015 inventories to identify any differences. Ultimately, we will learn if the forest is continuing to decline or recovering—evident by the reemergence of locally extinct fern life. Applying airborne eDNA technology to the study of plant biodiversity will allow us to contribute towards techniques for rapid biodiversity monitoring.

Poster:

Team samples: