Sensitive environmental DNA detection via lateral flow assay (dipstick) - A case study on corallivorous crown-of-thorns sea star (Acanthaster cf. solaris) detection

Detection of low-density CoTS populations is critical for early warning of outbreaks and can lead to early management interventions (e.g., culling). A lateral flow assay method for eDNA detection was developed using a commercially available nucleic acid lateral flow device (PCRD™) in combination with a previously developed species-specific mtDNA primer. This method was applied to eDNA water samples collected in field locations where CoTS were present in low (=nonoutbreak) population densities to demonstrate the sensitivity of the method to detect these populations.

Aquarium raised 6- to 12-month-old juvenile CoTS were used for laboratory testing to prepare dilution series of genomic DNA.

A total of 58 water samples were collected from two locations on the Great Barrier Reef (GBR), Australia; 40 samples from Big Vicky's Reef in August 2019 and 18 samples from Elizabeth Reef in May 2019. See Doyle and Uthicke (2021) for full sample processing procedures.

Each field sample was analysed via ddPCR and PCR/LFA and assay sensitivity was compared as well as an assessment of the cost and time to complete sample analysis.

All data associated with this study can be found either in the main text or appendices of Doyle and Uthicke (2021) linked below.