Detection of 4 imperiled western North American freshwater mussel species from environmental DNA with multiplex qPCR assays.

Four freshwater mussel species native to western North America, Gonidea angulata , Margaritifera falcata , Anodonta nuttalliana , and Anodonta oregonensis , have experienced dramatic declines over the last century and are currently threatened in many portions of their ranges. Therefore, improved tools for detecting and monitoring these species are needed. We developed multiplexed, species-specific, quantitative PCR assays for the detection of these species from environmental DNA (eDNA). We empirically tested species specificity and sensitivity of assays in the lab, and we also validated multiplex assays with field-collected eDNA samples. All assays were species specific, sensitive, and effective for detection from eDNA samples collected from streams and rivers. These assays will aid in the detection, monitoring, management, and conservation of these vulnerable mussel species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]