Affiliation:
1. Shaanxi Key Laboratory of Qinling Ecological Security, Shaanxi Institute of Zoology, Xi’an 710032, China
Abstract
Sichuan taimen (Hucho bleekeri Salmonidae) populations are declining, and the status of remnant populations in the Qinling Mountains is poorly known. In this study, eDNA and creel netting were used to estimate the distributions of Sichuan taimen in two upper tributaries of the Hanjiang River. A qPCR assay was applied to detect the eDNA of H. bleekeri, and the presence of Sichuan taimen in the Taibai River, but not in the Xushui River, was confirmed. Sampling during summer achieved a relatively higher detection rate. The utility of eDNA techniques for detecting low-density Sichuan taimen was demonstrated in intricate stream ecosystems. The eDNA method can increase the efficiency of the management of endangered freshwater species, such as Sichuan taimen, by providing reliable distribution data.
Funder
National Natural Science Foundation of China
Foundation of Shaanxi Science and Technology Department
Foundation of Shaanxi Academy of Science of China
Subject
Ecology,Aquatic Science,Ecology, Evolution, Behavior and Systematics