Rapid DNA / eDNA ‐Based ID Tools for Improved Chondrichthyan Monitoring and Management
Year: 2025
Type: article
Abstract: Rapid DNA/eDNA-based ID tools, which detect specific genetic patterns without requiring sequencing, are essential for biodiversity and wildlife trade monitoring, particularly for species of conservation concern. However, the practical application of these methods remains limited by the availability of standardised protocols, accessibility of resources, and coverage across diverse taxa. This challenge is especially pronounced for Chondrichthyes, a group heavily overexploited due to fishing and illegal trade, and with data scarcity for conservation assessments. Despite their ecological and economic importance, many species lack reference sequences in databases, as well as other molecular data and tools, hindering the development of molecular tools for species identification and trade regulation. This review synthesises the current state of rapid DNA/eDNA-based ID tools for the detection of chondrichthyan species, including established and emerging methods. It also compiles available taxon-specific primers to facilitate efficient species identification and recommends the most suitable methods. We identify key gaps in taxonomic and geographic coverage, emphasising the need for further research to expand these tools to under-represented species and regions. Additionally, we highlight the importance of integrating genetic approaches into enforcement frameworks to enhance conservation strategies and regulatory compliance. By providing an accessible reference for time- and cost-effective genetic monitoring, this work will support evidence-based decision-making and improve the practical application of rapid DNA/eDNA-based ID tools in the conservation and management of Chondrichthyes species worldwide.
Source: Molecular Ecology Resources
Authors: Marcela Maki Alvarenga, Ingrid Vasconcellos Bunholi, Aisni Mayumi C. L. Adachi, Marcelo Merten Cruz, Leonardo Manir Feitosa, Eduarda Valério de Jesus, Maria Eduarda Leda Lopes, Cintia Povill, Daniela Souza, Yan Torres, Antonio Mateo Solé‐Cava, Rodrigo Rodrigues Domingues, Patricia Charvet, Vanessa Paes da Cruz
Institutions: Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Universidade do Porto, Centro de Investigação em Biodiversidade e Recursos Genéticos, University of Texas at Austin Marine Science Institute, The University of Texas at Austin, Universidade Estadual Paulista (Unesp), Universidade Federal do Pará, University of California, Santa Barbara, Universidade de São Paulo, Vale Technological Institute, University of Basel, Universidade Federal do Ceará
Language: English
Subfield: Molecular Biology
Domain: Life Sciences
Open Access status: hybrid
Estimated APC paid: $5,250
Funders: Schweizerischer Nationalfonds zur Förderung der Wissenschaftlichen Forschung, Fundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo, Coordenação de Aperfeiçoamento de Pessoal de Nível Superior, Fundação Carlos Chagas Filho de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado do Rio de Janeiro, Fundação Cearense de Apoio ao Desenvolvimento Científico e Tecnológico, Save Our Seas Foundation, Fundação para a Ciência e a Tecnologia, Marine Science Institute, College of Natural Sciences, University of Texas at Austin
OpenAlex ID: W4414358183