Environmental DNA Metabarcoding: A Novel Contrivance for Documenting Terrestrial Biodiversity

Simple Summary The innovative concept of environmental DNA has found its foot in aquatic ecosystems but remains an unexplored area of research concerning terrestrial ecosystems. When making management choices, it is important to understand the rate of eDNA degradation, the persistence of DNA in terrestrial habitats, and the variables affecting eDNA detectability for a target species. Therefore an attempt has been made to provide comprehensive information regarding the exertion of eDNA in terrestrial ecosystems from 2012 to 2022. The information provided will assist ecologists, researchers and decision-makers in developing a holistic understanding of environmental DNA and its applicability as a biodiversity monitoring contrivance. The dearth of cardinal data on species presence, dispersion, abundance, and habitat prerequisites, besides the threats impeded by escalating human pressure has enormously affected biodiversity conservation. The innovative concept of eDNA, has been introduced as a way of overcoming many of the difficulties of rigorous conventional investigations, and is hence becoming a prominent and novel method for assessing biodiversity. Recently the demand for eDNA in ecology and conservation has expanded exceedingly, despite the lack of coordinated development in appreciation of its strengths and limitations. Therefore it is pertinent and indispensable to evaluate the extent and significance of eDNA-based investigations in terrestrial habitats and to classify and recognize the critical considerations that need to be accounted before using such an approach. Presented here is a brief review to summarize the prospects and constraints of utilizing eDNA in terrestrial ecosystems, which has not been explored and exploited in greater depth and detail in such ecosystems. Given these obstacles, we focused primarily on compiling the most current research findings from journals accessible in eDNA analysis that discuss terrestrial ecosystems (2012-2022). In the current evaluation, we also review advancements and limitations related to the eDNA technique.

Automated summary

This article provides comprehensive information on the use of environmental DNA (eDNA) in terrestrial ecosystems from 2012 to 2022. It highlights the importance of understanding eDNA degradation, DNA persistence, and variables affecting eDNA detectability in terrestrial habitats. The information presented is essential for ecologists, researchers, and decision-makers to develop a holistic understanding of eDNA and its applicability as a biodiversity monitoring tool. Lack of cardinal data and increasing human pressure have significantly impacted biodiversity conservation, and the innovative concept of eDNA offers a promising solution. However, there is a need for coordinated development and evaluation of eDNA-based investigations in terrestrial habitats to address its strengths and limitations.