Week 9 - Molecular Biology: eDNA White Claw Crayfish and Environmental Monitoring
As my work placement at the Marine Institute drew to a close, I was fortunate enough to spend my final week exclusively working on the National Crayfish Plague Surveillance Programme. The primary focus was on monitoring and controlling the spread of the invasive Aphanomyces astaci, a devastating disease threatening our native crayfish populations.
My week began with a sampling trip to Gort, Co. Galway, where we conducted environmental DNA (eDNA) sampling at three sites within the 'Shannon Estuary North' catchment. We used a peristaltic pump to filter three replicates of 5 litres at each sample site,
Throughout the process, emphasized the importance of adhering to strict biosecurity measures and containment protocols to avoid spreading the disease between waterways. This served as a stark reminder of our shared responsibility in preserving our aquatic ecosystems, highlighting the need for everyone involved in water-based activities to adopt the 'Check, Clean, and Dry' protocol.
Back in the lab, I delved into the intricate world of molecular biology as I extracted eDNA from our sample filters using Qiagen Water kits. Despite the time-consuming process involving various reagents and buffers, the outcome was a 100µm sample of DNA from each site.
With our extracted eDNA in hand, we proceeded to perform a duplex real-time polymerase chain reaction (rtPCR) test, pooling replicate samples from each site. This advanced technique allowed us to amplify and detect the presence of Aphanomyces astaci DNA, providing crucial insights into the distribution of the disease within the sampled area.
Working alongside Bogna on such an important conservation project has been both enlightening and inspiring. Her passion and dedication to safeguarding Ireland's native crayfish populations have not only deepened my appreciation for the fragile balance of our aquatic ecosystems but also solidified my desire to pursue a research career centered on molecular techniques.
As I reflect on my time at the Marine Institute, I am immensely grateful for the wealth of knowledge and experience gained throughout this journey. The skills and insights acquired from this placement will undoubtedly prove invaluable as I embark on the next chapter of my academic and professional career in conservation research.
Learn more about molecular biology and the Fish Health Unit below:
https://www.fishhealth.ie/fhu/
https://www.fishhealth.ie/fhu/about-us/national-reference-laboratory
https://www.fishhealth.ie/fhu/news-media/news/update-crayfish-plague-ireland-0#:~:text=National%20Crayfish%20Plague%20Surveillance%20Programme,-In%20an%20effort&text=This%20surveillance%20programme%20uses%20the,(34%20areas%20in%20total)
