Validation of a nutria ( <i>Myocastor coypus</i> ) environmental DNA assay highlights considerations for sampling methodology

Nutria (Myocastor coypus) is a semiaquatic rodent species that invasive across multiple regions within the United States. Here, we evaluated qPCR assay previously described for use in Japan application populations We also compared two environmental DNA sampling methodologies this assay: field filtration of large volumes water passed through filters versus direct small water. validated specificity, generality, and sensitivity, performance between independent laboratories, successfully tested situ on known wild population. The method required fewer samples detection than sampling, but choice methods should be assessed based specific conditions time budget considerations. Our extensive validation comparison laboratories suggest ready to applied monitoring nutria throughout