Scientists develop eDNA markers to detect Burmese pythons in southern Florida waters

Scientists have developed and optimised python-specific environmental DNA (eDNA) markers to detect Burmese pythons through water samples collected in southern Florida. The work focuses on Stormwater Treatment Areas, the Corkscrew Regional Ecosystem Watershed, and nearby rivers and canals connected to waterways previously sampled. The interconnected canal and river network can help non-native and invasive species spread, which makes python distribution difficult to determine.According to the US Geological Survey (USGS), the scientists used water samples to look for traces of python DNA and estimate where the snakes occur. The project examined possible waterways that could serve as corridors for northward expansion.How are scientists using eDNA to track Burmese pythonsUSGS scientists developed and optimised python-specific eDNA markers to detect Burmese pythons from water samples taken from southern Florida. The project surveyed Stormwater Treatment Areas (STAs), the Corkscrew Regional Ecosystem Watershed (CREW), and adjacent river or canal systems connected to previously sampled waterways. The aim was to improve understanding of where Burmese pythons are found across South Florida.T...