Use of environmental DNA to survey the distribution of the invasive mussel <i>Limnoperna fortunei</i> in farm ponds

The golden mussel Limnoperna fortunei (Dunker, 1857) is an invasive freshwater bivalve species that exerts harmful effects on the environment, as well man-made structures, such water-treatment systems. By using conventional sampling methods, it difficult to detect mussels under low-density conditions; however, environmental DNA (eDNA) analysis may be a rapid and efficient method for monitoring this aquatic organism. In study, we conducted surveys based eDNA of L. in 15 farm ponds Japan compared results with those two survey visual census plankton larval survey, clarify effectiveness field fortunei. Primers probe specific were developed, was established. laboratory experiments, detected all water tanks containing mussels, concentration high experimental tank had density where found by low concentrations also several no traditional methods. These suggest has greater sensitivity detection than Environmental have little impact management are suitable at facilities not yet been damaged mussels.