qPCR assays for the detection of two western North American freshwater mussel species, Anodonta nuttalliana and Anodonta oregonensis, from environmental DNA

Abstract

We developed species-specific quantitative PCR assays for the detection of two freshwater mussel species native to the western North America, Anodonta nuttalliana and Anodonta oregonensis, from environmental DNA. These species have experienced dramatic declines over the last century, and are currently threatened in many portions of their range. Improved tools for detecting and monitoring these species are needed. Species-specificity and sensitivity of the assays was empirically tested in the lab, and both assays were also validated with field collected eDNA samples. We found that the assays we designed are species-specific, sensitive, and are effective for detecting Anodonta nuttalliana and Anodonta oregonensis from environmental DNA samples collected from streams and rivers. These assays will aid in the detection, monitoring, management, and conservation of these threatened species.