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What is the context of this research?

The biodiversity of ponds is an understudied topic in ecology, especially ponds in urban landscapes. Complete and correct identification of organisms is at the heart of any ecological study. This project utilizes cutting-edge environmental DNA (eDNA) sampling techniques. Preliminary results from late summer 2014 sampling have detected numerous invasive species and high degree of dissimilarity among our seven study ponds. Understanding why biodiversity differs between ponds in the changing landscape of an urban setting is central to discovering how to plan sustainable cities for future generations. With your help this research will gain new understanding of how human influences alter the living environment of the urban landscape.

What is the significance of this project?

This is the first major exploration of biodiversity of ponds in New York City. The project also benefits education by providing research opportunities for graduate and undergraduate students, as well as high school students. Results from this project will aid city planners, urban ecologists, and park managers in making data based decisions.

Environmental DNA (eDNA) sampling has been in use in bacterial studies since the 1980's. This project represents one of the first applications of eDNA analyses to obtain a snapshot of pond biodiversity. eDNA techniques stand to replace classic pond survey methods by offering rapid results, easy identification of organisms and less destructive sampling techniques. This project will explore how to optimize eDNA uses in freshwater pond assessments.

What are the goals of the project?

-View the NY1 story about the project to see us in action!

-Use the new methods of environmental DNA (eDNA) sampling to gain a comprehensive understanding of all organisms living in urban ponds (bacteria, fungi, plants, animals)

-Advance the use of eDNA in ecological assessments and promote the use of these non-destructive sampling techniques

-Compare biodiversity differences in seven urban ponds throughout the spring and summer

-Use data for ecological modeling to aid in future conservation projects

-Engage high school and undergraduate students in authentic ecological research in their own backyards