Sunday, August 5, 2018: 8:00 AM-11:30 AM
354, New Orleans Ernest N. Morial Convention Center
Organizer:
Alexis Janosik
Co-organizer:
Justine Whitaker
Environmental DNA (eDNA) is rapidly gaining traction in the field of ecology for both aquatic and terrestrial systems, and can often be incorporated into ongoing ecological studies. Application of eDNA is useful when studying cryptic, rare, imperiled, and invasive species, or when used as a standard monitoring tool. Environmental DNA projects need to be designed properly, considering factors such as time and method of sampling, collection of environmental variables, primer specificity, and PCR protocols. This workshop will focus on designing and carrying out eDNA projects. We will cover pertinent steps in how to design sampling protocols, primer design for species specificity, controlling for contamination, how to troubleshoot inhibition of PCR, and BLAST. The workshop will consist primarily of demonstrations and online activities. This workshop is designed for those who do not already know how to utilize eDNA in ecological studies, but would like to learn the basics of eDNA practices, protocols, advantages and limitations.