Developing and Assessing eDNA Survey Methodology for Protected Mussel Species in Texas
The research project will develop environmental DNA (eDNA) assays to detect 12 target mussel species in Texas waterways from collected water samples. The research team proposes to compare the detection levels of current USFWS mussel survey techniques with the results of the developed eDNA assays. A combination of Unionid multispecies metabarcoding assays and species-specific assays employing nested PCR will be developed and compared for their detection limits on the 12 mussel species. Seasonal and environmental factors will be tested, as well as limits of detection and detection by distance from source to determine best practices for eDNA sampling for the 12 species. The team proposes to directly inform the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) where, when, and how to use eDNA for monitoring freshwater mussels. Fully developed and tested protocols will be delivered to TxDOT in the form of field and laboratory manuals.
Language
- English
Project
- Status: Active
- Funding: $1,452,744.00
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Contract Numbers:
0-7219
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Sponsor Organizations:
Texas Department of Transportation
125 E. 11th Street
Austin, TX United States 78701-2483 -
Project Managers:
Schwerdt, Tom
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Performing Organizations:
University of Texas Rio Grande Valley
1201 W. University Dr
Edinburg, TX United States 78539 -
Principal Investigators:
Kline, Richard
- Start Date: 20250110
- Expected Completion Date: 20271231
- Actual Completion Date: 0
Subject/Index Terms
- TRT Terms: Environmental impacts; Environmental monitoring; Fresh water; Mollusca; Test procedures
- Geographic Terms: Texas
- Subject Areas: Environment; Planning and Forecasting; Transportation (General);
Filing Info
- Accession Number: 01944831
- Record Type: Research project
- Source Agency: Texas Department of Transportation
- Contract Numbers: 0-7219
- Files: RIP, STATEDOT
- Created Date: Feb 4 2025 10:12AM