Municipality
King Island
Funding Status
Awaiting Support
Achievement Plans
Discover comprehensive information about the islands waterways, invertebrates and water quality by gathering water samples with volunteer groups, sending the samples for DNA testing through EnviroDNA then reporting on the results to the public.
Methods
The status of various vertebrate populations on King Island will be tested using latest technology to test DNA in waterways across the island. The platypus has been chosen as a focus animal. Participation in the citizen scientists program will increase general knowledge of many aspects of water quality, and inform about the need for any action. Stage 1: Citizen Science Day and Sampling A workshop will be held where an EnviroDNA ecologist will talk about platypus and waterway ecology, eDNA as an aquatic monitoring tool, and demonstrate correct water sampling techniques. Sampling kits will be provided to citizen scientists. Water sampling will be carried out by local citizen scientists using a 1.2 μm manual disc filter following EnviroDNA protocols. It is expected that surveys will be undertaken at up to 40 sites with 2 replicates at each site (80 samples total). Stage 2: eDNA analysis Samples will be DNA extracted using a modified Qiagen spin column method in our laboratories, with all samples stored at -20 #C to maintain the quality of eDNA prior to analysis. All samples will be screened in triplicate using EnviroDNA’s assays Positive and negative controls will be included for all assays. Stage 3: Reporting A report will be provided outlining methodology used and results (including spreadsheet with raw results) after completion of analyses. Stage 4: The report will be available on the KILG website and will be promoted to the community, council, NRM, and will be mailed directly to a select group The project will require considerable promotion to the community. TasPorts contribution and support will be acknowledged in every communication. King Island Landcare are celebrating 30 years this year, culminating in a range of activities in April 2027.
Natural Values
The project will “measure in order to protect” species in coastal and estuarine environments across the island. The research will determine presence or absence of all invertebrates at various monitoring sites. This information will indicate water quality and inform actions which may be required to protect or improve habitat of various species. Using innovative new technology and the particular focus on determining the status of the island platypus population will spark community interest and hopefully participation in the project.
Outcomes
We hope to achieve a comprehensive picture of vertebrate species in King Island waterways including platypus and any other potentially endangered or at risk species, while determining water quality and involving the community in important conservation work.
Amount
$20k - $30k
