Exploring the diversity of sharks in Hawai'i
On-going massive declines in shark populations have led to an urgent need for large-scale monitoring of marine megafauna. Traditional shark surveys are oftentimes conducted using visual techniques (such as baited cameras or underwater visual censuses), coupled with capturing and tagging of individuals. Traditional survey methods are not only highly resource-intensive, but also rely on successful capture of mobile, rare, elusive, or threatened species.
Environmental DNA (eDNA), or genetic material released naturally into the water column, may provide insights into the diversity and population dynamics of sharks within and around the Hawaiian Islands. Sharks are among the most threatened of marine taxa and the Hawaiian Islands are home to numerous shark species as well as important shark nursery habitats. We aim to assess the application of eDNA from filtered seawater samples to more accurately estimate the diversity of sharks on coral reefs around the Hawaiian archipelago in order to better inform management and conservation of these important species. |