Environmental DNA metabarcoding as an effective and rapid tool for fish monitoring in canals

Abstract

Environmental DNA (eDNA) metabarcoding has revolutionized biomonitoring of aquatic habitats. Man-made canal systems are among the least-studied environments in terms of biodiversity in Britain. Here we focus on a case study along an English canal comparing eDNA metabarcoding with two types of electrofishing techniques (wade-and-reach and boom-boat). In addition to corroborating data obtained by electrofishing, eDNA provided a wider snapshot of fish assemblages. Given the semi-lotic nature of canals, we encourage the use of eDNA as a fast and cost-effective tool to detect and monitor whole fish communities.