eDNA Metabarcoding detection of Leptonycteris nivalis and other pollinators from agave

Nectar-feeding bats, like the Mexican long-nosed bat, may leave DNA behind on flowers and this DNA may be detectible with genetic tools. Determining whether this is the case is important because some of these bat species follow "nectar corridors" during their migrations, and these corridors should be located for conservation and management. We collected flower samples from agaves that were visited by the Mexican long-nosed bat, and developed two eDNA detection methods (DNA metabarcoding and qPCR) to assess whether bat DNA could be detected.