Application of Environmental DNA Signatures for Detecting Rare Freshwater Species in Fragmented River Networks

Environmental DNA (eDNA) has become an innovative molecular technique for identifying rare and elusive species in freshwater ecosystems, especially in disconnected river systems where traditional identification methods are limited by sparse populations, habitat isolation, and reduced species mobility. The current research project assessed the utility of environmental DNA signatures to detect rare species in disconnected river ecosystems and their distribution patterns. The methodology involved collecting water samples from selected river sections and detecting genetic traces through molecular techniques and DNA sequencing. Special emphasis was placed on the role of hydrological connectivity, water flow, sediment interaction, and environmental conditions on eDNA detection and distribution patterns. This application of eDNA profiles offers the potential to increase species detection while avoiding disturbance to sensitive aquatic species. In addition, including habitat connectivity data in the molecular analysis enabled better understanding of rare-species distribution within fragmented freshwater ecosystems. Sampling location, environmental conditions, and DNA persistence were all crucial to interpreting detection results. Environmental DNA monitoring is an important complementary method for freshwater biodiversity assessments.