Exploring the Biodiversity of a European NATURA 2000 Mediterranean Lagoon through eDNA Metabarcoding

Coastal lagoons are considered important habitats both for ecological functions and biodiversity worldwide. Thus, they provide relevant ecosystem services valuable natural resources. However, coastal highly susceptible to anthropogenic pressures that can cause losses require specific biomonitoring programs as well management measures. In this research, we applied environmental DNA (eDNA) metabarcoding investigate the of a poorly known Mediterranean lagoon included in European Natura 2000 Network. We used cytochrome oxidase I (COI) gene marker capture entire diversified aquatic environment. With low sampling effort rapid laboratory practices, large amount data was generated analyzed. Interestingly, straightforward broad molecular surveying unveiled wide variety taxonomic groups, such benthic macroinvertebrates, zooplankton, phytoplankton, macroalgae, which frequently indicators. were able detect species previously morphologically identified, never identified before. This research underlines validity eDNA assessing protected ecosystem, identifying early warnings stressors. Finally, highlights need multiple target genes primers set larger analysis species.