Detection efficiency of multi-eDNA samplers for terrestrial vertebrate diversity in mountainous region

This study selected the GLGM area as a representative mountain environment and collected three types of environmental DNA (eDNA) samples: water samples, iDNA from leeches, and air eDNA samples, all in comparable quantities. Utilizing metabarcoding method with five pairs of molecular markers, a total of 237 vertebrate species were detected. Our results indicated that water samples, being the most common eDNA sampler performed the best, detecting 176 vertebrate species, or 74% of the total detections. While iDNA samples mediated by leeches were slightly less efficient, they still identified 101 vertebrate species. Although air eDNA demonstrated overall weaker performance, it successfully identified 21 unique species and showed particular advantages in detecting small birds. The multi species occupancy modeling analysis validated the feasibility of eDNA species detection and mapped the distribution patterns of vertebrate taxa in the detective region. (Conclusion)It is recommended to combine multiple eDNA samplers with diverse primer combinations to enhance detection efficiency and accuracy, especially in areas of high biodiversity. Integrating various sampling methods will contribute to a more effective assessment and conservation of vertebrate resources within mountain ecosystems.