Environmental DNA metabarcoding serves as a promising method for aquatic species monitoring and management: A review focused on its workflow, applications, challenges and prospects

• Published in: Marine pollution bulletin Vol. 194; p. 115430
• Main Authors: Zhang, Miaolian, Zou, Yingtong, Xiao, Shan, Hou, Jing
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: Elsevier Ltd 01.09.2023
• Subjects: Biodiversity; Biological monitoring; eDNA metabarcoding; Endangered species; Environmental sample; Invasive species; eDNA metabarcoding; Invasive species; Endangered species; Biodiversity; Biological monitoring; Environmental sample
• ISSN: 0025-326X; 1879-3363
• DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2023.115430

Marine and freshwater biodiversity is under threat from both natural and manmade causes. Biological monitoring is currently a top priority for biodiversity protection. Given present limitations, traditional biological monitoring methods may not achieve the proposed monitoring aims. Environmental DNA metabarcoding technology reflects species information by capturing and extracting DNA from environmental samples, using molecular biology techniques to sequence and analyze the DNA, and comparing the obtained information with existing reference libraries to obtain species identification. However, its practical application has highlighted several limitations. This paper summarizes the main steps in the environmental application of eDNA metabarcoding technology in aquatic ecosystems, including the discovery of unknown species, the detection of invasive species, and evaluations of biodiversity. At present, with the rapid development of big data and artificial intelligence, certain advanced technologies and devices can be combined with environmental DNA metabarcoding technology to promote further development of aquatic species monitoring and management. [Display omitted] •The workflow of eDNA metabarcoding technology is summarized.•eDNA metabarcoding technology contributes to effectively biomonitoring.•Invasive species and endangered species are vital detection targets of eDNA method.•Limitations and issues exist in the application of eDNA metabarcoding technology.•eDNA metabarcoding technology is expected to be combined with other technologies.