eDNA

FWC Fish and Wildlife Research Institute (FWRI) was recently awarded funding to pilot an environmental DNA (eDNA) fish study in a select number of Central Florida springs. In combination with in-water visual fish surveys and their electrofishing surveys, the eDNA research aims to provide early detection of new invasive fish species to Florida’s springs and possibly even imperiled species. Rainbow Spring Aquatic Preserve (RSAP) staff hosted five fisheries biologists from FWRI at the headsprings of the Rainbow River to discuss logistics, sampling access points, and site expertise. RSAP is excited to work with FWRI on this pilot project and hopes it will result in additional funding for years to come.