Browsing by Author "Marquardt, Bailey Irene"
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- Can eDNA be leveraged to track taxonomic composition of coral spawning slicksPublication . Marquardt, Bailey Irene; Elder, Holland; Vinagre, CatarinaMonitoring threatened ecosystems is critical for understanding and mitigating the ongoing loss of biodiversity. Coral reefs are among the most vulnerable ecosystems, facing numerous threats including climate change, overfishing, and pollution. Restoration activities, such as coral transplantation and the establishment of marine protected areas, are increasingly employed to restore these ecosystems to preserve their ecosystem functions. However, the effectiveness and influence of such restoration efforts on the ecosystem are often difficult to assess due to the challenges of monitoring the vast and complex marine environment. This study focuses on the use of environmental DNA (eDNA) to monitor coral spawning slicks, which are vital for the natural recovery and maintenance of coral populations. Spawning slicks, composed of gametes and subsequent coral zygotes released during synchronized coral spawning events, provide a unique opportunity to assess the reproductive success and species composition of coral communities. While traditional methods for monitoring restored coral populations are labor-intensive and limited in scope, eDNA analysis of slick samples provides a more efficient alternative. By analyzing eDNA from slick samples collected during spawning events, we can identify the genera present in the slicks, including those that are difficult to detect through visual observations alone. Utilizing the CoralITS2 and CoralITS2_acro sequencing assays, this study demonstrates the potential of eDNA as a powerful tool for monitoring the composition of coral spawning slicks, thereby providing insights into the reproductive dynamics of restored and at-risk coral species. This approach offers a non-invasive, cost-effective, and scalable method for assessing the success of restoration activities and informing conservation strategies. By integrating eDNA monitoring into existing coral reef management practices, we can enhance our ability to track the recovery of these critical ecosystems and better understand the impacts of restoration efforts.