|
Madison WikstonMy Master’s research assesses the efficacy of eDNA (environmental DNA) as an amphibian monitoring tool in Ontario, particularly in comparison to citizen science monitoring. While amphibian eDNA research world-wide has focused on the detection of a single target species, my project will use eDNA to detect the complete species richness of amphibians in a given habitat. This research will be especially important for salamanders, which are difficult to monitor due to their secretive nature and lack of vocalizations. It will also provide a more sensitive monitoring tool for detecting less common amphibian species, as well as species at risk. In addition, my research will assess the quality of data being achieved through anuran call surveys performed by citizen scientists by comparing them to eDNA and dipnet surveys. This will provide valuable insight into the sensitivity, consistency, and accuracy of this branch of citizen science, as well as contribute to directing future monitoring efforts.
|
Education |
|
Contact:
email: madisonwikston[at]trentu[dot]ca
email: madisonwikston[at]trentu[dot]ca