Challenges in eDNA detection of the invasive European green crab, Carcinus maenas

The early detection of invasive species is essential to cease the spread of the species before it can cause irreversible damage to the environment. The analysis of environmental DNA (eDNA) has emerged as a non-harmful method to detect the presence of a species before visual detection and is a promising approach to monitor invasive species. Few studies have investigated the use of eDNA for arthropods, as their exoskeleton is expected to limit the release of eDNA into the environment. We tested published primers for the invasive European green crab, Carcinus maenas, in the Gulf of Maine and found them not species-specific enough for reliable use outside of the area for which they were designed for. We then designed new primers, tested them against a broad range of local faunal species, and validated these primers in a field study. We demonstrate that eDNA analyses can be used for crustaceans with an exoskeleton and suggest that primers and probe sequences must be tested on local fauna at each location of use to ensure no positive amplification of these other species.

Automated summary

The early detection of invasive species is crucial to protect the environment, and environmental DNA analysis is a promising non-harmful method. Few studies have explored the use of eDNA for arthropods, as their exoskeleton may limit the release of eDNA. This study demonstrates that eDNA analysis can be used for crustaceans with an exoskeleton and emphasizes the importance of testing primers and probe sequences on local fauna at each location.