GOTeDNA: Guidance on optimal eDNA sampling periods to develop, optimize, and interpret monitoring programs

Funding period: 2022-2025   
Lead: Anais Lacoursiere
Total GRDI funding: $314,805

With its power to increase coastal survey coverage, environmental DNA (eDNA) is increasingly employed to monitor ecosystems and support decision-making. Currently, little is known about temporal and regional eDNA variation. Consequently, projects ma fail to detect species of interest because samples are not collected during optimal time periods. This project  collects and interprates time-series datasets of biological and physical factors altering eDNA optimal detection periods in order to provide guidance on designing eDNA research and monitoring programs. Our guidance on optimal eDNA sampling periods will include standardized procedures for assessing and monitoring aquatic invasive species, species at risk and coastal biodiversity. This project will contribute to further validating eDNA methods at the operational level and facilitate integration of results in management decisions.