Early Detection of Aquatic Invasive Species and Harmful Algal Blooms in Lake Superior

Image credit: UMPR.

Reusable eDNA Cartridge and Low-Cost Extraction Protocol for Early Detection of Aquatic Invasive Species and Microbial Indicators in Lake Superior 

This project will develop an affordable, reusable method for collecting and extracting environmental DNA, or eDNA, from Lake Superior water. eDNA is genetic material that organisms leave behind in the environment. eDNA can help identify species or microbes before they become widespread or cause problems.

The method uses a cartridge, a small device that holds a filter or other material used to capture DNA from a water sample. Researchers will test and refine the cartridge and the laboratory steps for removing the captured DNA so it can be analyzed. They will test whether the method recovers enough DNA while removing substances in lake water that can interfere with laboratory results. 

Researchers will compare their method with commercial DNA extraction kits and test it using zebra mussels, common carp, rusty crayfish and the cyanobacterium Microcystis aeruginosa. They will then test the method with samples from Lake Superior.
The project aims to produce an improved reusable eDNA cartridge, step-by-step laboratory protocols, test results and comparisons with existing commercial methods.

Making this technology less expensive and reusable could give lakeshore property owners, resource agency staff, tribes, and community groups a more affordable way to detect aquatic invasive species and harmful algal blooms before they become widespread.