Platypus monitoring
eDNA provides a quick, cost-effective and highly sensitive method to assess platypus occurrence.
eDNA has revolutionised how we monitor this iconic but elusive species. Compared to traditional techniques, eDNA has the power to precisely detect the presence of of platypus with as little as two water samples. Compared to a traditional detection method of setting and monitoring many fyke nets over a long period of time, eDNA provides a low cost, quick and highly effective alternative.
eDNA provides a quick, cost-effective and highly sensitive method to assess platypus presence around impact sites with exceptional sensitivity occurrence. This technology is rapidly transforming how we understand platypus distribution across Australia. It delivers unmatched sensitivity and speed, making it ideal for local or large-scale environmental assessments. As Australia’s pioneers in eDNA technology since 2016, we are committed to advancing eDNA to drive conservation efforts and protect the iconic platypus. This technology has powered some of the largest-scale projects in Australia, shaping the future of this species to thrive in its natural environment.
How you can use eDNA
- Inform management of works and development
- Understand the effects of impact zones with pre- and post-sampling
- Guide on-ground conservation efforts
- Investigate impacts of environmental variables or disturbances
- Assess waterway health, using the platypus as a bio-indicator species
During the summer of 2019/20, south-eastern Australia faced devastating bushfires, burning over 11 million hectares, including 13.56% of total platypus habitat (UNSW unpublished data). EnviroDNA partnered with Cesar Australia to conduct a large-scale eDNA survey funded by the Australian Government's Regional Bushfire Recovery program.
This study assessed the potential impacts on platypuses in NSW by comparing landscape-scale occupancy data before and after the fires. It highlights the importance of using pre-fire data and controls in good survey design. This project is the first to systematically study platypus presence at a landscape scale in NSW, providing a crucial baseline to track future changes
This is the largest systematic survey of platypuses ever done, covering over 1,800 sites across all Victorian river basins and largely undertaken by citizen scientists. Odonata Foundation teamed up with EnviroDNA to create a national aquatic monitoring program using eDNA and citizen scientists to collect data at a large scale.
A total of 3,898 eDNA samples were tested for platypus presence, mapping platypus occurrence across Victoria. We analysed the samples using sensitive eDNA tests and the results were shared publicly.
