USGS: Early detection of aquatic threats: eDNA research in the Colorado River ecosystem & Lake Powell – Maven’s Notebook

USGS Environmental DNA Research in the Colorado River Ecosystem: Advancing Sustainable Development Goals

Introduction to eDNA Research and Its Relevance to SDGs

The United States Geological Survey (USGS), in collaboration with multiple federal and state agencies, is conducting pioneering environmental DNA (eDNA) research in the Colorado River downstream from Glen Canyon Dam and in Lake Powell. This research is critical for the early detection of invasive fish species and other aquatic threats, aligning with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 14 (Life Below Water) and SDG 15 (Life on Land).

eDNA technology enables the identification of invasive species before they become visible, even in large and difficult-to-survey aquatic environments. This proactive approach supports ecosystem preservation and biodiversity conservation, key targets under the SDGs.

Changing River Conditions and Emerging Ecological Threats

Since the completion of Glen Canyon Dam in 1963, cold water releases from Lake Powell prevented the establishment of warm-water invasive fish downstream. However, prolonged drought conditions since the early 2000s have lowered Lake Powell’s water levels, resulting in warmer water flowing through the dam’s penstocks.

These altered conditions have created favorable habitats for invasive predatory fish species such as smallmouth bass (Micropterus dolomieu), walleye (Sander vitreus), and green sunfish (Lepomis cyanellus), which threaten native fish populations including the razorback sucker (Xyrauchen texanus) and humpback chub (Gila cypha), both of which are threatened or endangered.

Early detection and prevention of invasive species proliferation contribute directly to SDG 15 by protecting terrestrial and freshwater biodiversity.

USGS Application of eDNA Technology

Methodology and Benefits

• Environmental DNA consists of genetic material shed by organisms into their environment through skin cells, feces, reproductive fluids, and other biological processes.
• Water samples are collected and analyzed to detect species presence at very low population levels, often before traditional methods can identify them.
• eDNA sampling minimizes physical handling of fish, addressing ethical concerns and supporting SDG 12 (Responsible Consumption and Production) by promoting sustainable monitoring practices.

Innovative Monitoring Approaches

The USGS is deploying automated eDNA samplers in strategic locations such as downstream from Glen Canyon Dam, side channels, and within dam draft tubes. These devices collect water samples on a preset schedule, enabling continuous year-round monitoring.

Samples are analyzed using high-throughput genetic screening technology developed by the U.S. Forest Service National Genomics Center. This includes a specialized biochip capable of detecting up to 46 invasive aquatic species, with adaptations for species specific to the Colorado River.

This initiative, known as READI-Net (Rapid eDNA Assessment and Deployment Initiative & Network), advances SDG 9 (Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure) by integrating cutting-edge technology for environmental monitoring.

Complementary Traditional Monitoring

USGS scientists also collect eDNA samples during traditional fish monitoring activities, allowing for direct comparison of eDNA effectiveness against conventional methods such as netting and electrofishing. This research supports the potential for eDNA to serve as a less invasive and more efficient alternative, enhancing sustainable ecosystem management.

Investigating Invasive Fish Origins: The Lake Powell Connection

Determining whether invasive fish downstream of Glen Canyon Dam originate from local reproduction or are transported from Lake Powell is essential for targeted management strategies.

USGS scientists collaborate with the Bureau of Reclamation’s water quality monitoring program to collect eDNA samples at various depths in Lake Powell’s forebay using Van Dorn water samplers. Sampling zones are selected based on water temperature, oxygen levels, and chlorophyll concentrations to identify invasive species distribution and potential entrainment through the dam.

This research supports SDG 6 (Clean Water and Sanitation) by enhancing water quality management and ecosystem health.

Benefits to Partner Agencies and Ecosystem Management

• Bureau of Reclamation: USGS research informs engineering and flow management strategies to prevent invasive fish passage through Glen Canyon Dam, fulfilling obligations under the 2016 Long-term Experimental and Management Plan (LTEMP) and Biological Opinion.
• National Park Service: Continuous monitoring data and early invasive species detection aid decision-making for invasive fish removal in Grand Canyon National Park and Glen Canyon National Recreation Area.
• U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service: Collaborative eDNA research on parasite detection offers less invasive monitoring alternatives, supporting native fish health and conservation.

These collaborative efforts exemplify integrated resource management aligned with SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals), enhancing cross-agency cooperation for sustainable ecosystem stewardship.

Collaborative Science and Data Integration

The USGS coordinates with multiple agencies to maximize data collection efficiency and minimize duplication of efforts. This includes integrating water quality monitoring, genetic screening, and traditional fish surveys to produce standardized, scientifically rigorous data.

This comprehensive approach enables informed decision-making regarding invasive species control, species recovery, and dam operations in a rapidly changing ecosystem, advancing SDG 15 and SDG 13 (Climate Action) by addressing ecological impacts of climate variability.

eDNA Analysis Process

1. Sample Collection: Collection of water, soil, sediment, or air samples depending on study objectives.
2. Concentration: Techniques such as filtration and centrifugation concentrate sparse environmental DNA into smaller volumes for analysis.
3. DNA Extraction: Purification of DNA from samples using commercial kits to remove contaminants and inhibitors.
4. Amplification: Quantitative Polymerase Chain Reaction (qPCR) amplifies target genetic markers for detection.
5. Detection: Fluorescent probes in qPCR identify the presence of target species DNA in samples.

Conclusion

The USGS eDNA research in the Colorado River ecosystem represents a significant advancement in early detection and management of aquatic invasive species. By leveraging innovative technologies and fostering multi-agency collaboration, this work supports the achievement of multiple Sustainable Development Goals, including biodiversity conservation, sustainable water management, and climate resilience.

Source: Originally published by USGS. For more information, visit USGS Early Detection of Aquatic Threats eDNA Research.

1. Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) Addressed or Connected

• SDG 6: Clean Water and Sanitation – The article focuses on monitoring aquatic ecosystems and water quality in the Colorado River and Lake Powell, which is essential for ensuring clean water.
• SDG 14: Life Below Water – The research targets invasive aquatic species and the protection of native fish species, directly relating to the conservation and sustainable use of aquatic ecosystems.
• SDG 15: Life on Land – The conservation of threatened and endangered native fish species and ecosystem management aligns with protecting terrestrial and freshwater ecosystems.
• SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals – The article highlights multi-agency collaboration among USGS, Bureau of Reclamation, U.S. Forest Service, National Park Service, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, and Arizona Game and Fish Department.

2. Specific Targets Under Those SDGs

• SDG 6
  • Target 6.3: Improve water quality by reducing pollution and minimizing release of hazardous chemicals.
  • Target 6.6: Protect and restore water-related ecosystems.
• SDG 14
  • Target 14.1: Prevent and reduce marine pollution, including invasive species.
  • Target 14.2: Sustainably manage and protect aquatic ecosystems to avoid significant adverse impacts.
• SDG 15
  • Target 15.1: Ensure conservation, restoration, and sustainable use of terrestrial and freshwater ecosystems.
  • Target 15.5: Take urgent action to reduce degradation of natural habitats and halt biodiversity loss.
• SDG 17
  • Target 17.16: Enhance multi-stakeholder partnerships that mobilize and share knowledge and expertise.

3. Indicators Mentioned or Implied to Measure Progress

• Indicators for SDG 6
  • Water quality measurements through eDNA sampling detecting invasive species and aquatic threats.
  • Monitoring water temperature, oxygen levels, and chlorophyll concentrations in Lake Powell.
• Indicators for SDG 14 and 15
  • Presence and abundance of invasive fish species detected early via eDNA technology.
  • Population status of threatened and endangered native fish species such as razorback sucker and humpback chub.
  • Genetic kinship analyses to understand reproduction and spread of invasive species.
• Indicators for SDG 17
  • Number and effectiveness of collaborative monitoring programs and data-sharing initiatives among agencies.
  • Implementation of standardized, scientifically rigorous data collection methods.

4. Table of SDGs, Targets, and Indicators

Source: mavensnotebook.com