Real-time PCR assay for detection of Environmental DNA from <i>Chironex yamaguchii</i>

The box jellyfish Chironex yamaguchii is a highly venomous cubomedusa, also known as “habu-kurage” in Japan. It significant threat to marine activities Okinawa southern Annually, envenomation of the species causes nearly 100 200 injuries Prefecture. present study developed species-specific real-time PCR assay analyze environmental DNA (eDNA) for rapid detection water samples. Primers and probe were designed based on sequences mitochondrial cytochrome c oxidase subunit I region using tissue samples nine specimens obtained from specificity was confirmed by amplifying 10 different species. A practical eDNA successful natural habitat C. yamaguchii. In addition, degradation rate tank experiment 65% initial concentration at 1 h, 22% 12 3% 48 h.