Progress 10/01/19 to 09/30/20
Outputs
Target Audience:This project supports the development and implementation of effective invasive fish management strategies throughout New York by providing vital information regarding location and concentration of invasive and endangered fish species. The project impacts all those whose lives or occupations are affected by the adverse effects of invasive fish species in New York waterways, especially individuals involved in aquaculture, freshwater fisheries, and the sport fishing industry. The decline of important native fish species and the ecological damage resulting from growing populations of invasive fish also pose a serious threat to areas economically dependent on tourism and recreational activities. By helping to increase understanding of populations and distributions of invasive, endangered, and threatened fish species throughout New York, this project also serves the needs of those directly and peripherally involved in recreation and tourism related industries that are dependent on healthy aquatic ecosystems. Teachers and K - 12 students throughout the state are another important target audience who will benefit directly from use of the educational materials provided. Teachers and students will benefit from the opportunity to work with Cornell scientists in an important research project with direct ramifications for their local community. The project provides a unique research-related educational experience to students and teachers at schools serving a range of demographic groups, from small under-resourced rural schools to large urban schools serving students traditionally under-represented in STEM activities and careers, directly benefiting teachers and students from economically and educationally disadvantaged areas and increasing student interest in STEM related careers. Changes/Problems:The COVID pandemic and associated closing of schools and universities resulted in a significant decrease in the number of teachers and students involved in the program, and a concomitant decrease in the number of eDNA samples collected and tested. During that time, we reviewed and revised protocols and outreach materials, designed additional possible outreach activities, and explored and tested the use of Illumina Next Generation Sequencing for more in-depth analysis of student collected eDNA samples. What opportunities for training and professional development has the project provided?Due to extensive COVID-related school closings, opportunities for training and professional development were very limited. However, we did provide training materials, including background information and collection protocols, to teachers throughout New York who participated in the FishTracker project before the COVID outbreak. We also provided individual phone and email support for teachers using the kit. How have the results been disseminated to communities of interest?The results of the FishTracker project have been disseminated in multiple ways as described below. 1. Individual maps displaying the results of eDNA monitoring at all sites tested for each invasive and threatened or endangered fish species were published on Google maps and linked to the FishTracker website (https://fishtracker.vet.cornell.edu/edna-testing-results/ ). Individual maps for each species display the eDNA monitoring results at each site tested, GPS coordinates for each site, testing date, and the teacher and school responsible for the water collection at each site. 2. The results of the qPCR analysis of their submitted water samples were sent to all participating teachers, along with an interpretation of the results and information on how to analyze the data for discussion and teaching purposes. In the case of negative eDNA test results, a sample of the analysis of a positive qPCR result was also included to demonstrate how positive results are interpreted. What do you plan to do during the next reporting period to accomplish the goals?1. We will actively recruit teachers and students throughout New York State to participate in the FishTracker invasive fish monitoring program to increase the range and scope of waterways tested. As schools re-open, we will reach out to teachers, inviting those who have participated in the past to again engage their students in the fish monitoring project, and informing teachers new to the program about the advantages and opportunities offered by participation in the FishTracker research program. 2. We will post information about the program on the Oneonta BioForum and the 5-8 Science middle level science teachers' listservs. 3. We will expand our monitoring to include more samples, sites, and species, compile the results in an expanded FishTracker database, and present them on updated interactive Google maps. 4. We will work with past participants to resample sites previously tested to confirm whether a resident population has been established at previously positive sites, and to test for changes at previously negative sites. Repeat sampling will provide valuable data on the range and scope of these invasive fish species. 5. We will again offer workshops and seminars to interested groups regarding the FishTracker monitoring program. 6. We will actively communicate information about the FishTracker program to the general public by sharing results with teachers and students, and by utilizing local press coverage of FishTracker activities.
Impacts
What was accomplished under these goals?
Impact Non-native (invasive) fish species pose a serious threat to aquaculture, fisheries, the sport fishing industry, water resources, and the environment. Invasive fish disrupt aquatic food webs, community composition, and ecological balance, and contribute to a decline of economically and environmentally important native fish through predation, consumption of eggs and fry, competition for food and breeding grounds, disease spread, and the introduction of parasites. The damage caused by invasive fish adversely affects water quality, food supply, recreation, and tourism, and can endanger human and animal health by extending the range of parasites and pathogens. Annual losses due to ship-borne invasive species in the Great Lakes region alone have been estimated as at least $200 million dollars. Prevention and early detection are cornerstones for the management of invasive species. Since invasive fish are often introduced through common activities like accidental or intentional release of exotic pet fish, careless disposal of bait fish, and lack of attention to boat decontamination protocols, one important part of prevention is increasing public awareness of the problems related to the introduction of invasive fish and routes by which non-native fish are commonly introduced into new areas. When prevention fails, early detection of invasive species is key in controlling invasion and determining appropriate responses to effectively limit potential damage to fisheries and aquatic ecosystems. This project addresses the need for both prevention and early detection by establishing an economical collaboration between student citizen scientists and Cornell researchers to analyze the eDNA content of student collected water samples foreDNA from invasive, threatened, or endangered fish species. This strategic partnership also increases public understanding of the environmental and economic issues surrounding invasive species and encourages increased prevention efforts, while helping to equip a new generation of citizen scientists with the knowledge, ability, and interest to contribute to control the rapid spread of invasive species. Objectives The COVID-19 pandemic and the accompanying school closings greatly limited project activities during this reporting period. Student eDNA collection was primarily limited to late fall (October and November) of 2019. Within the limitations imposed by university and K-12 school closings, project objectives were addressed in the following ways. The project objectives are listed below, followed by progress in addressing each objective during this funding period. Objective 1) to develop and utilize qPCR primers and probes to provide highly specific monitoring of waterways throughout New York for the presence of eDNA from eight invasive fish species: round goby (Neogobius melanostomus), four Asian carp species (Ctenopharyngodon idella, Hypophthalmichthys molitrix, Hypophthalmichthys nobilis, Mylopharyngodon piceus), northern snakehead (Channa argus), white perch (Morone americana) and Asian swamp eel (Monopterus albus); and two endangered fish species, Lake Herring, also known as deep-water Cisco (Coregonus artedii), and American eel (Anguilla rostrata). We have completed development and testing of qPCR primer/probe combinations for Asian swamp eel, and have started testing archived eDNA samples for Asian swamp. We have also begun analyzing possible DNA sequences and primer/probe combinations from other invasive and endangered fish species for possible inclusion in our eDNA testing protocol. 2) to provide an economical mechanism for accurate early detection and monitoring of invasive and endangered fish species by engaging teachers and students in the collection and processing of eDNA samples from New York waterways utilizing previously developed and tested collection kits that provide all needed materials, location documentation, background information on issues associated with invasive fish, and carefully designed controls. We have provided an economical mechanism for accurate early detection and monitoring of invasive and endangered fish species. Although severely limited by school closings during the COVID pandemic, during this funding period we successfully engaged teachers and over 200 students at 11 schools in the collection and processing of eDNA samples from 24 sites. 3) to analyze the student collected eDNA samples at Cornell University using qPCR analysis of signature DNA sequences indicative of the presence of invasive fish species (round goby, four species of Asian carp, snakehead, Asian swamp eel, and white perch) and endangered native fish species (Lake Herring, American eel). We have analyzed student collected water samples from 24 sites throughout New York. We have completed duplicate testing of all currently held samples for round goby, snakehead, cisco, 4 species of Asian carp, alewife, and sea lamprey, white perch, tench, 3 species of sturgeon, brook trout, deep-water Cisco, and American eel. 4) to record eDNA results in a FileMaker database that compiles data regarding the presence or absence of each species at each location tested in an easily accessible and understandable format, facilitating integration of the data obtained with other information regarding the range, distribution, and abundance of invasive and endangered fish species to help frame an effective management plan. The results of eDNA qPCR analyses of all water samples have been entered into a FileMaker database that also identifies collection sites by GPS localization, school, and teacher. Monitoring results for each fish species are also mounted on individual, publicly accessible, interactive Google maps (https://fishtracker.vet.cornell.edu/edna-testing-results/). 5) to archive all eDNA samples at Cornell University to provide a valuable resource for future analyses of any aquatic species of interest, including newly recognized threats to aquaculture, freshwater fisheries, and the sport fishing industry. Triplicate eDNA filters have been collected from each test site. Following initial testing of one filter, all remaining samples are stored in DNase inhibiting buffer and archived in secure -20°C freezers. 6) to stimulate student interest and engagement in issues relating to invasive species and to increase awareness of the need for public participation in preventative measures by returning the annotated qPCR test results to participating teachers to serve as a basis for classroom discussion, and to provide information to share with family, friends, and neighbors. Although limited by the COVID pandemic, during this funding period over 200 students at 11 schools have utilized FishTracker materials and helped to monitor invasive and threatened or endangered fish species. The results of student monitoring have been returned to teachers and students for analysis and discussion of issues relating to invasive species and the need for public participation in preventative measures. 7) to develop new educational material addressing the economic and environmental threats posed by invasive species that will support the development of knowledgeable student citizen scientists who will be actively engaged in monitoring local waters for invasive and endangered fish species, and that will increase public awareness of the importance of prevention as the best defense against invasive species. We have expanded the curriculum material available through the FishTracker program to include more species and begun development of new curriculum material addressing issues related to invasive fish species and the need for public participation in preventative measures.
Publications
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Progress 10/01/18 to 09/30/19
Outputs
Target Audience:By providing vital information regarding location and concentration of invasive and endangered fish species, this project supports the development and implementation of effective invasive fish management strategies throughout New York. The project impacts all individuals whose lives or occupations are affected by the adverse effects of invasive fish species in New York waterways, especially those involved in aquaculture, freshwater fisheries, and the sport fishing industry. The decline of important native fish species and the ecological damage resulting from growing populations of invasive fish also pose a serious threat to areas economically dependent on tourism and recreational activities. By increasing our understanding of populations and distributions of invasive, endangered, and threatened fish species throughout New York, this project also serves the needs of those involved in recreation and tourism related industries. Another important target audience is K - 12 teachers and students throughout the state who will benefit directly from use of the educational materials provided, and from the opportunity to work with Cornell scientists in an important research project with direct ramifications for their local community. Teachers and students from schools serving a range of demographic groups, from small under-resourced rural schools to large urban schools serving students traditionally under-represented in STEM activities and careers, are participating in the project, providing direct benefits to students from economically and educationally disadvantaged areas. Changes/Problems:
Nothing Reported
What opportunities for training and professional development has the project provided?We have provided several opportunities for training and professional development as described below. 1. We presented a pre-service teacher workshop at Colgate University, providing a hands-on introduction to the FishTracker program. 2. We presented a professional development workshop on the use of FishTracker kits and eDNA to monitor invasive species to teachers at West Genesee High School. 3. We worked with the Ithaca Fall Creek elementary school teachers to support the FishTracker project undertaken by the entire 5th grade. FishTracker staff visited the school several times, were involved in a collection field trip, and participated in a parent's night presentation. 4. We provided training materials, including background information and collection protocols, for teachers throughout NY who participated in the FishTracker project. We have also provided individual phone and email support for teachers using the kit. How have the results been disseminated to communities of interest?The results of the FishTracker project have been disseminated in multiple ways as described below. 1. Individual maps displaying the results of eDNA monitoring at all sites tested for each invasive and threatened or endangered fish species were published on Google maps and linked to the FishTracker website (https://fishtracker.vet.cornell.edu/edna-testing-results/ ). Individual maps for each species display the eDNA monitoring results at each site tested, GPS coordinates for each site, testing date, and the teacher and school responsible for the water collection at each site. 2. The results of the qPCR analysis of their submitted water samples have been sent to all participating teachers, along with an interpretation of the results and information on how to analyze the data for discussion and teaching purposes. In the case of negative eDNA test results, a sample of the analysis of a positive qPCR result was also included to demonstrate how positive results are interpreted. 3. Information regarding participation in the FishTracker program has been disseminated via teacher listservs like the Oneonta BioForum and through listservs of other educational outreach programs like the Cornell ASSET program and the Cornell Institute for Biology program. 4. A number of media reports describing local teacher and student involvement in the FishTracker program have been published this year following local classroom implementation, including the following: https://www.sfchronicle.com/news/article/Cohoes-students-get-wet-and-muddy-for-science-13311765.php?psid=l3fme https://www.hfmboces.org/ag-ptech-students-dna-test-river-creek/ https://cbs6albany.com/news/local/cohoes-students-help-with-cornell-university-science-project https://myemail.constantcontact.com/Wildlife-Health-Cornell--Winter-2019-Newsletter.html?soid=1102159078416&aid=yqHDrEu7wmA What do you plan to do during the next reporting period to accomplish the goals?1. We will expand our monitoring to include more samples, sites, and species, compile the results in an expanded FishTracker database, and present them on updated interactive Google maps. 2. We will actively recruit more teachers and students throughout New York State to participate in the FishTracker invasive fish monitoring program to increase the range and scope of waterways tested. 3. We will work with past participants to resample sites previously tested to confirm whether a resident population has been established at previously positive sites, and to test for changes at previously negative sites. Repeat sampling will provide valuable data on the range and scope of these invasive fish species. 4. We will continue to offer workshops and seminars to interested groups regarding the FishTracker monitoring program. 5. We will actively communicate information about the FishTracker program to the general public by sharing results with teachers and students, and by utilizing local press coverage of FishTracker activities. 6. We will complete the testing of all new and archived samples for the presence of invasive Asian Swamp eel.
Impacts
What was accomplished under these goals?
Impact Non-native (invasive) fish species pose a serious threat to aquaculture, fisheries, the sport fishing industry, water resources, and the environment. Invasive fish disrupt aquatic food webs, community composition, and ecological balance, and contribute to a decline of economically and environmentally important native fish through predation, consumption of eggs and fry, competition for food and breeding grounds, disease spread, and the introduction of parasites. The damage caused by invasive species adversely affects water quality, food supply, recreation, and tourism, and can endanger human and animal health by extending the range of parasites and pathogens. Annual losses due to ship-borne invasive species in the Great Lakes region alone have been estimated as at least $200 million dollars, and estimates of overall economic losses in the United States due to non-native fish run as high as $5.4 billion annually. Prevention and early detection are cornerstones for the management of invasive species. Since invasive fish are often introduced through common activities like accidental or intentional release of exotic pet fish, careless disposal of bait fish, and lack of attention to boat decontamination protocols, one important part of prevention is increasing public awareness of the problems related to the introduction of invasive fish and routes by which non-native fish are commonly introduced into new areas. When prevention fails, early detection of invasive species is key in controlling invasion and determining appropriate responses to effectively limit potential damage to fisheries and aquatic ecosystems. This project addresses the need for both prevention and early detection by establishing an economical collaboration between student citizen scientists collecting and processing water samples from local waterways using filtration kits provided by the program, and Cornell researchers utilizing cutting edge environmental DNA (eDNA) technology to analyze the eDNA content of those water samples for invasive fish DNA and representative threatened or endangered fish species. The program provides everything needed to allow teachers and students to engage with Cornell scientists in meaningful scientific research with important real-world implications. The data generated by this collaborative effort provides critical information regarding locations and concentrations of invasive and threatened or endangered fish species throughout NY state, contributing to the development of effective management protocols for controlling invasive fish and managing native fish resources. All data is presented on the FishTracker website and is available to everyone concerned with the management of invasive and endangered fish species. In addition to generating important scientific data needed to develop effective management strategies, this strategic partnership between research scientists and young citizen scientists increases public understanding of the environmental and economic issues surrounding invasive species and native species loss and encourages increased prevention efforts, while helping to equip a new generation of citizen scientists with the knowledge, ability, and interest to contribute to control the rapid spread of invasive species. Objectives The project objectives are listed below, followed by current progress in addressing each objective. Objective 1) to develop and utilize qPCR primers and probes to support monitoring of waterways throughout New York for the presence of eDNA from invasive and endangered fish species. We have continued to develop and use species-specific primer/probe combinations to monitor eDNA from waterways throughout New York, including designing new primers, probes, and a standard amplicon for detection of the invasive Asian swamp eel. This year we used our probes to test water samples for 8 invasive fish species, 6 threatened, endangered, or declining native fish species, and 1 commonly found fish species for comparative purposes. 2) to provide an economical mechanism for accurate early detection and monitoring of invasive and endangered fish species by engaging teachers and students in the collection and processing of eDNA samples from NY waterways utilizing previously developed and tested collection kits. This year we engaged over 1000 students and 47 teachers at 48 schools in the collection and processing of eDNA samples from 116 sites throughout NY waterways. FishTracker kits and curriculum materials supported student collection of eDNA samples and educated students about the environmental, ecological, and economic threats posed by invasive species, routes of invasion, and mechanisms of prevention and control. 3) to analyze the student collected eDNA samples at Cornell University using qPCR analysis of signature DNA sequences indicative of the presence of invasive and threatened or endangered fish species. We have analyzed water samples from 116 sites collected by students and teachers from 48 schools throughout NY. In addition to testing new water samples as they were submitted, we also completed testing of all archived samples for the 15 fish species for which probes are currently available. 4) to record eDNA results in a Filemaker database that compiles data regarding the presence or absence of each species at each location tested in an easily accessible and understandable format, facilitating integration of the data obtained with other information regarding the range, distribution, and abundance of invasive and endangered fish species to help frame an effective management plan. The results of eDNA qPCR analyses of all water samples with all primer/probe combinations have been entered into a Filemaker database that identifies collection sites by GPS localization, school, and teacher. Monitoring results for each fish species have also been mounted on individual, publicly accessible, interactive Google maps (https://fishtracker.vet.cornell.edu/edna-testing-results/) to facilitate easy access to all FishTracker data. 5) to archive all eDNA samples at Cornell University to provide a valuable resource for future analyses of any aquatic species of interest. Triplicate eDNA filters have been collected from each test site. Following initial testing, all remaining samples are stored in DNase inhibiting buffer and archived in secure -20°C freezers. 6) to stimulate student interest and engagement in issues relating to invasive species and to increase awareness of the need for public participation in preventative measures by returning the annotated qPCR test results to participating teachers to serve as a basis for classroom discussion, and to provide information to share with family, friends, and neighbors. Over 1000 students at 48 schools have utilized FishTracker materials this year to monitor invasive and threatened or endangered fish species. The FishTracker program provided comprehensive introductory material regarding invasive fish species, detailed collection guides, and phone and email assistance. The eDNA analysis results from local water samples, along with a brief explanation of how qPCR analysis works, were returned to teachers and students to facilitate discussion and increase understanding of issues relating to invasive species and the need for public participation in preventative measures. 7) to develop new educational material addressing the economic and environmental threats posed by invasive species that will support the development of knowledgeable student citizen scientists, and that will increase public awareness of the importance of prevention as the best defense against invasive species. We have expanded the curriculum material available through the FishTracker program by adding descriptions of additional species to the introductory material. The results of local testing have been sent to each teacher for classroom use, along with an example of a qPCR analysis and a description of how qPCR works.
Publications
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Progress 10/01/17 to 09/30/18
Outputs
Target Audience:By providing vital information regarding location and concentration of invasive and endangered fish species, this project supports the development and implementation of effective invasive fish management strategies throughout NY. This project will impact all individuals whose lives or occupations are directly affected by the adverse effects of invasive fish species in New York waterways, especially those involved in aquaculture, freshwater fisheries, and the sport fishing industry. Those involved in the recreation and tourism industries will also benefit from improved management of invasive fish since the ecological damage caused by invasive fish species has been shown to result in adverse effects on water quality resulting in a negative economic effect on tourism and recreational activities. Another important target audience is K - 12 teachers and students throughout the state who will benefit directly from use of the educational materials provided, and from the opportunity to work with Cornell scientists in an important research project with direct ramifications for their local community. Teachers and students from schools serving a range of demographic groups, from small under-resourced rural schools to large urban schools serving students traditionally under-represented in STEM activities and careers, are participating in the project, providing direct benefits to students from economically and educationally disadvantaged areas. Changes/Problems:
Nothing Reported
What opportunities for training and professional development has the project provided?FishTracker has provided several opportunities for training and professional development as described below. 1. We presented a profession development workshop for New York State Master teachers at Cornell University, providing a hands-on introduction to the FishTracker program. 2. We presented a hands-on workshop on the FishTracker program to NY teachers as part of the Cornell Institute for Biology symposium at Cornell University. 3. We presented a talk on the use of eDNA to monitor invasive species to teachers participating in a Cold Spring Harbor workshop introducing eDNA and other metabarcoding experiments to educators. 4. We worked with the Ithaca Fall Creek elementary school teachers to support the FishTracker project undertaken by the entire 5th grade. FishTracker staff visited the school several times, were involved in a collection field trip, and participated in a parent's night presentation. 5. We provided training materials, including background information and collection protocols, for teachers throughout NY who participated in the FishTracker project. We have also provided individual phone and email support for teachers using the kit. 6. We did an onsite student workshop with students and teachers from Bishop Loughlin High School in Brooklyn, New York. Students collected and processed water samples from the Hudson River. How have the results been disseminated to communities of interest?The results of the FishTracker project have been disseminated in multiple ways as described below. 1. The results of the qPCR analysis of their submitted water samples have been sent to all participating teachers, along with an interpretation of the results and information on how to analyze the data for discussion and teaching purposes. In the case of negative eDNA test results, a sample of the analysis of a positive qPCR result was also included to demonstrate how positive results are interpreted. 2. Individual maps displaying the results of eDNA monitoring at all sites tested for each invasive and threatened or endangered fish species are available on Google maps and are linked to on the FishTracker website (https://fishtracker.vet.cornell.edu/edna-testing-results/). Maps display the eDNA monitoring results, GPS coordinates, testing date, and teacher and school name for each site tested. 3. Information regarding participation in the program is disseminated via teacher listservs like the Oneonta BioForum and through listservs of other educational outreach programs like the Cornell ASSET program and the Cornell Institute for Biology program. 4. A number of media reports describing the program and teacher and student involvement have been published following local implementation of the FishTracker program, including the following: Cornell Chronicle article on NYC FishTracker activity 10-24-17 http://news.cornell.edu/stories/2017/10/nyc-students-catch-science-bug-help-cornell-scientists Spectrum news report (TV) 10/25/2017 Link:http://www.ny1.com/nyc/brooklyn/news/2017/10/25/brooklyn-students-become-scientists-for-the-day CVM's Hanley-Cassidy and Casey turn to schools across New York to keep invasive species at bay Feb. 24, 2017 https://www2.vet.cornell.edu/news/20170224/cvms-hanley-cassidy-and-casey-turn-schools-across-new-york-keep-invasive-species-bay The 74 Nov. 8, 2017 (https://www.the74million.org/article/brooklyn-high-schoolers-are-citizen-scientists-helping-cornell-combat-dire-enemy-invasive-fish/) Brooklyn High-Schoolers Are Citizen Scientists Helping Cornell Combat Dire Enemy: Invasive Fish What do you plan to do during the next reporting period to accomplish the goals?1. During the next reporting period we will complete the design, testing, and implementation of additional primer probe sets. 2. We will expand our monitoring to include more samples, sites, and species, compile the results in an expanded FishTracker database, and present them on updated interactive Google maps. 3. We will actively recruit more teachers and students throughout New York State to participate in the FishTracker invasive fish monitoring program to increase the range and scope of waterways tested. 4. We will work with past participants to resample sites previously tested to confirm whether a resident population has been established at previously positive sites, and to test for changes at previously negative sites. Repeat sampling will provide valuable data on the range and scope of these invasive fish species. 5. We will continue to offer workshops and seminars to interested groups regarding the FishTracker monitoring program. 6. We will actively communicate information about the FishTracker program to the general public by sharing results with teachers and students, and by utilizing local press coverage of FishTracker activities.
Impacts
What was accomplished under these goals?
Impact Non-native (invasive) fish species pose a serious threat to aquaculture, fisheries, the sport fishing industry, water resources, and the environment. Invasive fish disrupt aquatic food webs, community composition and ecological balance, and contribute to a decline of economically and environmentally important native fish through predation, consumption of eggs and fry, competition for food and breeding grounds, disease spread, and the introduction of parasites. The damage caused by invasive species adversely affects water quality, food supply, recreation, and tourism, and can endanger human and animal health by extending the range of parasites and pathogens. Annual losses due to ship-borne invasive species in the Great Lakes region alone have been estimated as at least $200 million dollars, and estimates of overall economic losses in the United States due to non-native fish run as high as $5.4 billion annually. Prevention and early detection are cornerstones for the management of invasive species. Since invasive fish are often introduced through common activities like the release of exotic pet fish, careless disposal of bait fish, and lack of attention to boat decontamination protocols, one important part of prevention is increasing public awareness of the problems related to the introduction of invasive fish and routes by which non-native fish are commonly introduced into new areas. When prevention fails, early detection of invasive species is key in controlling invasion and determining appropriate responses to effectively limit potential damage to fisheries and aquatic ecosystems. This project addresses the need for both prevention and early detection by establishing an economical collaboration between student citizen scientists collecting and processing water samples from local waterways using filtration kits provided by the program, and Cornell researchers utilizing cutting edge environmental DNA (eDNA) technology to analyze the eDNA content of those water samples for invasive fish DNA. The program provides everything needed to allow teachers and student citizen scientists to engage with Cornell scientists in meaningful scientific research with important real-world implications. The data generated by this collaborative effort provides critical information regarding locations and concentrations of invasive fish species and representative threatened or endangered species throughout NY state, contributing to the development of effective management protocols for controlling invasive fish and managing native fish resources. All data is publicly available on the FishTracker website to anyone concerned with the management of invasive and endangered fish species. In addition to generating important scientific data needed to develop effective management strategies, this partnership between active research scientists and young citizen scientists increases public understanding of the environmental and economic issues surrounding invasive species and native species loss and encourages increased prevention efforts, while helping to equip a new generation of citizen scientists with the knowledge, ability, and interest to contribute to control the rapid spread of invasive species. Objectives The project objectives are listed below, followed by current progress in addressing each objective. Objective 1) to develop and utilize qPCR primers and probes to support monitoring of waterways throughout New York for the presence of eDNA from invasive and endangered fish species. We have developed and tested primer/probe combinations and created appropriate qPCR standards for several new species, including cisco, American eel, white perch, and sturgeon and rock bass, which have been added to the growing list of monitored fish. We are in the process of developing suitable primers and probes for Asian eel. 2) to provide an economical mechanism for accurate early detection and monitoring of invasive and endangered fish species by engaging teachers and students in the collection and processing of eDNA samples from NY waterways utilizing previously developed and tested collection kits. We have implemented an economical mechanism for accurate early detection and monitoring of invasive and endangered fish species by engaging over 45 teachers and 1000 students at 45 schools throughout New York State in the collection and processing of eDNA samples from local waterways. FishTracker kits and curriculum materials supported eDNA sampling of 153 sites by student citizen scientists, who also learned about the environmental, ecological, and economic threats posed by invasive species, routes of invasion, and mechanisms of prevention and control. 3) to analyze the student collected eDNA samples at Cornell University using qPCR analysis of signature DNA sequences indicative of the presence of invasive and threatened or endangered fish species. Using quantitative PCR (qPCR) technology, we have analyzed student-collected water samples from 153 sites throughout NY. We have completed duplicate testing of all currently held samples for round goby, snakehead, cisco, 4 species of Asian carp, and sea lamprey. Testing of all water samples for the remaining species for which we have primers and probes is currently underway. 4) to record eDNA results in a Filemaker database that compiles data regarding the presence or absence of each species at each location tested in an easily accessible and understandable format, facilitating integration of the data obtained with other information regarding the range, distribution, and abundance of invasive and endangered fish species to help frame an effective management plan. The results of eDNA analyses of all water samples with all primer/probe combinations have been entered into a Filemaker database that also identifies collection sites by GPS localization, school, and teacher name. Monitoring results for each fish species are also mounted on individual, publicly accessible, interactive Google maps linked to the FishTracker website (https://fishtracker.vet.cornell.edu/edna-testing-results/). 5) to archive all eDNA samples at Cornell University to provide a valuable resource for future analyses of any aquatic species of interest. Triplicate eDNA filters have been collected from each test site. Following initial testing, which utilizes a very small amount of one filter sample, all remaining samples have been stored in DNase inhibiting buffer and archived in secure -20°C freezers to provide a valuable resource for future use. 6) to stimulate student interest and engagement in issues relating to invasive species and to increase awareness of the need for public participation in preventative measures by returning the annotated qPCR test results to participating teachers to serve as a basis for classroom discussion, and to provide information to share with family, friends, and neighbors. Over 1000 students at 45 schools have utilized FishTracker materials to monitor invasive and threatened or endangered fish species. The results of student monitoring have been returned to teachers and students for analysis and discussion, facilitating discussion and understanding ofissues relating to invasive species and the need for public participation in preventative measures. 7) to develop new educational material addressing the economic and environmental threats posed by invasive species that will support the development of knowledgeable student citizen scientists, and that will increase public awareness of the importance of prevention as the best defense against invasive species. We have expanded the curriculum available through the FishTracker program to include descriptions of new fish species. Additional curriculum addressing issues related to invasive species, and increasing awareness of the need for public participation in preventative measures is under development for various grade levels and will be mounted on the website as it is completed.
Publications
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