Super-charging Biosecurity Surveillance for early detection of cryptic pest fauna in the GBR World Heritage Area (Old ID 27663)
Role
Principal Investigator
Description
This project will use the emerging technique of environmental DNA (eDNA) to improve the monitoring capacity for targeted invasive ants (yellow crazy ants, electric ants, red imported fire ants, tropical fire ants) across high-risk islands of the GBR. The main aim is to conduct eDNA monitoring of four invasive ant species and identify early incursions and potential changes in abundance over time. Field sampling will involve simple protocols and will be in charge of Indigenous Rangers, citizen scientists, tour operators or others through either structured or opportunistic monitoring programs. Detection of target species could trigger eradication programs and decrease the impact of invasive ants on the native biodiversity. Information provided by the project will also allow prioritisation of future efforts to prevent future incursions.
Date
23 May 2022 - 31 Jul 2024
Project Type
GRANT
Keywords
Early detection;eDNA;Invasive species;Monitoring;Ants;Great Barrier Reef
Funding Body
Great Barrier Reef Foundation
Amount
224939
Project Team
Natale Snape