When introduced into a new environment, why do some organisms subsequently establish populations, spread widely, and cause ecological or economic harm? Conversely, why do some formerly common species decline in established ecosystems and face an elevated risk of extinction? Join the East Central Illinois Master Naturalists and Dr. Eric R. Larson for Environmental DNA to Monitor Plant and Animal Communities on Monday, October 16 at 7 p.m. in the Champaign County Extension Auditorium, 801 N Country Fair Dr., Champaign, IL 61821, to hear about these broad questions ecologists and conservation scientists are addressing.
One new tool for scientists to address these questions is environmental DNA or eDNA, which refers to DNA captured and identified from environmental samples like soil, water, or air. This presentation provides an overview of the development of eDNA and its application in fisheries stock assessment, surveillance of invasive species, and monitoring populations of endangered species, and includes case studies from Illinois ecosystems. The presentation will conclude with forward-looking possibilities for collaboration between eDNA labs and researchers and citizen or community scientists. Master Naturalists will be particularly interested in these potential collaborations.
Dr. Eric R. Larson is an associate professor in Natural Resources and Environmental Sciences at the University of Illinois. His Ph.D. was in Aquatic and Fishery Sciences (2011) at the University of Washington, Seattle. His research program focuses on managing small populations in freshwater ecosystems, including endangered and invasive species. His studies use several approaches, including species distribution or habitat suitability modeling, environmental DNA (eDNA), and stable isotope analysis of trophic interactions.
College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences University of Illinois, U.S. Department of Agriculture, and local Extension councils cooperating. University of Illinois Extension provides equal opportunities in programs and employment.