Cuticular Swabs and eDNA as Non-Invasive Sampling Techniques to Monitor Aphanomyces astaci in Endangered White-Clawed Crayfish (Austropotamobius pallipes Complex)

In endangered crayfish conservation projects, it is paramount to map the distribution of causative agent plague, Aphanomyces astaci, in native populations. Considering inapplicability destructive cuticular sampling protocol for monitoring populations, we explored use non-invasive techniques detect this pathogen with molecular assays. present study, exploited environmental DNA (testing increasing water volumes combined different filter porosities) and swabs collect A. astaci DNA. addition, evaluated impact storage method on preservation during field activities. After first evaluations performed both highly infected Austropotamobius pallipes carrier Procambarus clarkii specimens laboratory conditions, these were applied wild populations white-clawed crayfish. Our findings highlight better results filtration 5 L filters 2.7 µm porosity eDNA analysis demonstrate that swabbing equally effective as World Organisation Animal Health’s protocol. Storage absolute ethanol proved be best solution preserve samples up a week at room temperature. conclusion, suggest an integration methods when purposes.