eDNA and Biodiversity Monitoring

The video discusses the use of environmental DNA (eDNA) and DNA metabarcoding to detect elusive species, monitor biodiversity, and study extinct species. eDNA allows scientists to identify organisms from environmental samples without direct observation. DNA metabarcoding involves extracting DNA from samples, amplifying it using PCR, and comparing it to reference databases. This method has been used to track invasive species, monitor ecosystem interactions, and study historical biodiversity. eDNA provides insights into recent and ancient ecological changes, aiding in conservation efforts.

What was the main challenge in detecting the Canada lynx in Montana?

• Lack of funding for research

• Inability to identify its tracks with certainty

• Insufficient camera trap technology

• Unavailability of researchers

What is the primary purpose of DNA metabarcoding?

• To identify organisms in environmental samples

• To create new species

• To enhance camera trap technology

• To eliminate invasive species

How does DNA metabarcoding help in monitoring biodiversity?

• By creating new habitats

• By increasing the number of species

• By speeding up the categorization of species

• By eliminating non-native species

What was the outcome of using eDNA in Yosemite?

• Increase in bullfrog population

• Reintroduction of California red-legged frogs

• Discovery of new plant species

• Introduction of new invasive species

How can eDNA be used to study pollination networks?

• By planting more flowers

• By analyzing DNA left on flowers and insects

• By observing insects directly

• By tracking insect movements with GPS

What did researchers discover about moths using eDNA?

• Moths are not involved in pollination

• Moths only pollinate during the day

• Moths are declining in population

• Moths are important nocturnal pollinators

What conditions are ideal for preserving genetic material?

• Warm and humid

• Cold, dry, and low oxygen

• Hot and dry

• Wet and oxygen-rich

What did eDNA reveal about the Arctic steppe during the last ice age?

• It was covered in dense forests

• It had a stable climate

• It was colonized by less nutritious grasses

• It was home to many mammoths

Why is understanding biodiversity important in the context of climate change?

• To eliminate invasive species

• To increase the number of species

• To create new habitats

• To protect rapidly shifting ecosystems

What tool allows scientists to document rapid environmental changes in real time?

• Traditional field surveys

• Satellite imagery

• eDNA and metabarcoding

• Camera traps