In the heart of Alberta, an unseen battle is raging beneath the water’s surface. Two invasive fish species, the goldfish and the Prussian carp, are wreaking havoc on local ecosystems, and the energy sector is not immune to the impacts. These aquatic invaders can disrupt water intake systems, clog cooling systems, and even alter water quality, posing significant challenges to power plants and other industrial facilities.
Enter Jacob R. Hambrook, a researcher from the School of Public Health at the University of Alberta. Hambrook and his team have developed a groundbreaking method to detect and distinguish between these two invasive species using environmental DNA (eDNA) analysis. Their work, published in the journal Environmental DNA, could revolutionize how we monitor and manage aquatic invasive species, with far-reaching implications for the energy sector.
The problem with these invasive species is that they are notoriously difficult to detect and distinguish from one another. Both the goldfish and the Prussian carp are small, bottom-dwelling fish that can be hard to spot. Traditional monitoring methods, such as netting or electrofishing, can be time-consuming and ineffective. But Hambrook’s new method offers a more efficient solution.
“We’ve developed two assays, one based on the cytochrome B gene and another on the ND2 gene,” Hambrook explains. “These assays can detect and distinguish between goldfish and Prussian carp with a high degree of accuracy.” The assays work by amplifying specific DNA sequences unique to each species, allowing researchers to identify their presence in water samples with remarkable sensitivity.
The implications for the energy sector are significant. By providing a more accurate and efficient way to monitor these invasive species, Hambrook’s research could help energy companies better protect their infrastructure and maintain the integrity of their water systems. “This technology could be a game-changer for the energy sector,” says Hambrook. “It allows for early detection and rapid response, which can help prevent costly damage and downtime.”
But the benefits don’t stop at detection. The assays developed by Hambrook and his team also fail to amplify markers in closely related fish species common to Alberta, ensuring that the results are species-specific. This specificity is crucial for targeted management efforts and could help prevent the spread of these invasive species.
The research team implemented these assays throughout Alberta and found 13 goldfish and 47 Prussian carp environmental DNA detection events. These findings align with visual observation data, validating the assays’ effectiveness in a real-world monitoring program.
As the energy sector continues to grapple with the challenges posed by aquatic invasive species, Hambrook’s research offers a beacon of hope. By providing a more accurate and efficient way to monitor these invaders, his work could help protect critical infrastructure and ensure the sustainable operation of energy facilities.
Looking ahead, the potential for this technology is vast. As Hambrook puts it, “This is just the beginning. We’re already exploring how this technology can be applied to other invasive species and other industries. The possibilities are endless.”
As the battle against aquatic invasive species rages on, Hambrook’s research shines a light on a promising new tool in our arsenal. By harnessing the power of eDNA analysis, we can better protect our waterways, our ecosystems, and our critical infrastructure. The future of invasive species management is here, and it’s written in the DNA of the water itself.
