Integrating eDNA and citizen science observations to model distribution of a temperate freshwater turtle near its northern range limit.

ABSTRACT:

Background

To determine species distributions and the factors underlying them, reliable occurrence data are crucial. Assembling such data can be challenging for species with cryptic life histories or that occur at low densities.

Methods

We developed species-specific eDNA protocols, from sampling through data interpretation, to detect the common musk turtle (Sternotherus odoratus) and tested whether eDNA occurrences change our understanding of the species distribution and the factors that shape its northern range limit. We used Species Distribution Models (SDMs) with full parameter optimization on citizen science observations of S. odoratus in Southern Ontario alone and together with eDNA occurrences.

Results

Our eDNA protocol was robust and sensitive. SD

SUBMITTER: Feng W 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC10040185 | biostudies-literature | 2023

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature