In recent years, the fight against invasive species in Florida has taken a technological turn with the introduction of advanced DNA testing. The University of Florida has pioneered a method known as the tetraplex digital PCR assay, allowing researchers to detect the environmental DNA (eDNA) of invasive species, including the elusive Burmese python, through water and soil samples. This innovative approach enhances the previous tests by being capable of identifying up to four different snake species within a single sample.
Every organism sheds DNA into the environment, whether through sneezing, skin shedding, or other biological processes. For pythons, this means that traces of their DNA can be found in water bodies or soil without needing a visual on the animal. The new testing methods have demonstrated remarkable precision, with researchers successfully identifying Burmese python DNA in soil samples even two weeks after the snake had been removed. This precision extends to testing conducted at various intervals with captive pythons in aquatic settings.
Traditionally, detecting these pythons relied heavily on visual surveys, which are often insufficient given the snake’s camouflage and tendency to reside far from human-accessible areas. Studies reveal that less than 5% of the Burmese python population can be typically spotted in such surveys. Thus, this new DNA method significantly amplifies the ability to trace these invasive species, regardless of their numbers, according to Sergio Balaguera-Reina, a research assistant scientist at the University of Florida.
The implications of this technology are vast. It offers wildlife officials a non-invasive and cost-effective means to monitor and respond to the presence of invasive python populations proactively. For instance, the Loxahatchee Wildlife Refuge could deploy periodic eDNA testing to promptly address any influx of these reptiles, especially where current surveillance indicates the absence of such populations.
This development extends beyond detection. Researchers at the University of Florida are exploring how this method can assess the effectiveness of invasive species removal efforts, particularly in regions critical to the Everglades Restoration Plan. The restoration aims to revert the water flow and ecosystem to their natural states, and the presence of invasive pythons could undermine these efforts.
Additionally, this technology provides the flexibility to target other species and monitor ecological changes. For instance, it could help detect Argentine tegu lizards known for their egg predation or other fish species like Asian swamp eels. Frank Mazzotti, a co-author of the study, has highlighted plans to expand the detection capabilities to include these species within a comprehensive regional sampling network.
The short-term focus is on refining the technique’s in-field application, including understanding the influence of weather and proximity on test accuracy. Once these challenges are addressed, the goal is to integrate this testing with existing management efforts, such as those of the South Florida Water Management District.
The overarching question stands: Can true ecological restoration occur if invasive species dominate? According to Melissa Miller, an invasion ecology specialist, restoration requires more than just landscape improvement. If species not native to the ecosystem continue to thrive, the restoration efforts seem incomplete.
DNA testing offers promising advancements in combating the spread of invasive species like the Burmese python, providing tools for efficient detection and management to protect Florida’s ecosystems.
Source: Sun-sentinel
