Comparative efficacy of eDNA and conventional methods for monitoring wetland anuran communities

Documenting biodiversity, species occurrence, and status require reliable monitoring techniques, but the complex life history cryptic behavior of many anurans create challenges for conventional approaches. Environmental DNA (eDNA) surveys are a promising alternative (or complement) to anuran monitoring, their relative success has not been fully tested. We assessed comparative efficacy targeted eDNA detection via quantitative PCR (qPCR) three amphibian survey methods (visual encounter, breeding call, larval dipnet surveys) detecting nine in natural wetlands southern Ontario, Canada. Our analyses revealed that all assessment yielded imperfect detection, with visual encounter greatest richness requiring fewest sampling events. Amphibian community composition results differed among events, was markedly variable, some two maximize success. Notably, relatively terrestrial ( Anaxyrus americanus Hyla versicolor ) had low seasonally variable rates, suggesting species-specific ecology likely affects presence or detection. These findings suggest optimized communities may application multiple methods, which need be tailored individual target communities.