Standard Fish Sampling Techniques

Examining environmental deoxyribonucleic acid (eDNA) in water samples has demonstrated promise for identifying fish species present in water bodies. However, whether or not this same approach can be used to assess relative abundance, biomass, and species composition in large (greater than [>] 200-hectare) waterbodies is unclear. This research compared largemouth bass and gizzard shad catch at electrofishing and gill netting sites with their eDNA in water samples collected at those same sites. Results suggest that eDNA data can be used to characterize relative abundance and biomass across a large lake system, but its use may not be effective at smaller scales. Partners include the USGS and the Arizona Game and Fish Department.