Graduate students use environmental DNA (eDNA) to sample streams where physical removal of invasive walking catfish is possible

Among the world's most invasive freshwater fish, sharptooth walking catfish is considered one of the most widespread! Environmental DNA (eDNA) is an efficient and fast detection tool that can help inform decision makers about the extent of the invasion in Puerto Rico. USGS researchers at the Tennessee Cooperative Fishery Research Unit is using environmental DNA (eDNA) to sample streams and help inform where physical removal efforts of this invasive species could best be allocated. The research team is working with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (FWS) and University of Puerto Rico to identify removal and monitoring locations. The outcome of the project may help to inform control needs for an invasive species in Puerto Rico.