The Wrack

Study published in Ecological Indicators demonstrates the potential for using environmental DNA to survey green crabs in estuaries.

eDNA methods and traditional plankton-net surveys are complementary ways to investigate estuarine fish assemblages. Which methods to use depend on what question we ask.

When green crabs arrived in New England more than 150 years ago, they found an unoccupied ecological niche in Maines salt marshes. Despite their long occupancy, great abundance, and serious impacts, there is a lot left to learn about green crabs. The reserves latest research has focused on understanding seasonal movements, population structure, sexual maturity, and effects on habitats.

Environmental DNA could dramatically change the way reserve scientists survey streams, rivers, and estuaries for finfish and crustaceans.