Passive eDNA Sampling Characterizes Fish Community Assembly in the Lancang River of Yunnan, China
Year: 2025
Type: article
Abstract: This study aimed to determine the practical efficacy of passive eDNA samplers (PEDS) for monitoring fish diversity in riverine ecosystems. It investigated the utility of environmental DNA (eDNA) in accurately depicting fish composition and diversity within the Lancang River. Environmental DNA technology, particularly PEDS, may be used as a substitute for traditional water filtration techniques. However, its effectiveness in natural water ecosystems remains to be proven. The filter materials included mixed cellulose acetate and nitrate (MCE), nylon (NL), glass fiber (GF), and polyvinyl chloride filter membrane (PVC). This study used four different types of filters, each with identical pore sizes and dimensions but constructed from various materials, to assess eDNA capture under laboratory and field conditions in the water samples. The filter materials included mixed cellulose acetate and nitrate (MCE), nylon (NL), glass fiber (GF), and polyvinyl chloride filter membrane (PVC). Environmental DNA macrobarcoding was used to analyze fish biodiversity and to understand the environmental effects on species distribution. Our study identified 50 fish species inhabiting the Lancang River, with equal representation of exotic and native species. A comparative analysis of four filter-based environmental DNA samplers and traditional environmental DNA sampling methods demonstrated comparable species richness. Redundancy analysis indicated that environmental variables, elevation, electrical conductivity, salinity, and chlorophyll-a significantly influenced the distribution patterns of both non-native and native fish species in the river. This study highlights the significance of eDNA technology in evaluating fish diversity across diverse habitats, thereby establishing a theoretical framework for the sustained monitoring and management of fish biodiversity in protected areas.
Source: Biology
Language: English
Subfield: Ecology
Field: Environmental Science
Domain: Physical Sciences
Open Access status: gold
Estimated APC paid: $3,258
Funders: Ministry of Agriculture of the People's Republic of China, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs of the People's Republic of China, National Key Research and Development Program of China, Central Public-interest Scientific Institution Basal Research Fund, Chinese Academy of Fishery Sciences
Awards: G2073244474, G464836078, G7203820751
OpenAlex ID: W4413310101