eDNA research into the impact of Bsal/Bd on native amphibians (EVINBO)

At the request of the Netherlands, INBO has subcontracted a multi-year study into the impact of the invasive fungi Batrachochytrium salamandrivorans (Bsal) and Batrachochytrium dendrobatidis (Bd) on native amphibians in the region around Gorssel. In order to obtain a complete and detailed picture of the effects of these fungi, the eDNA expertise of INBO will be utilised. To this end, we will map the entire amphibian communities across a large number of pools using eDNA metabarcoding, with some vulnerable target species, such as the crested newt and common spadefoot, being studied in more detail using eDNA ddPCR analyses. The study includes eDNA screening of around 40 pools, two of which will be examined in more detail throughout the spring and summer.