This simple tool has proven surprisingly effective in collecting DNA from koalas – a famous Australian animal.
Known for their fluffy ears, round faces, and large black noses, koalas are creatures that spend most of their time sleeping in eucalyptus trees. Their high climbing habits and minimal movement make this Australian icon very difficult to track.
Kitchen filters have become an effective tool for preserving animal DNA – (Image: THE SPRUCE FATS)
However, the situation may soon change thanks to a new technique that can “sniff out” the location of koalas.
In mid-October, the new method was announced in the journal Applied Ecology.
The research team used filter cloths to capture DNA from these marsupials in their natural environment. These are the same types of cloths commonly found in kitchens for straining cheese, juice, or milk…
The team set up filter cloths fixed between two stainless steel plates at 26 locations across four nature reserves in Queensland, Australia.
Each location was equipped with two sets of filters: one set was placed about 1.5 meters above the ground and used a fan to draw in air.
Additionally, another set of filters was placed closer to the ground to capture debris.
After a few days, the researchers retrieved the filters and analyzed the genetic material collected.
The results were surprising, as scientists were able to identify DNA from koalas as well as DNA from 11 other animal species living in the area, including the wallaby (Wallabia bicolor) and the ringtail possum (Pseudocheirus occidentalis).
Koalas – a species on the brink of extinction – (Image: SCIENCE NEWS)
According to Science News, the population of koalas (Phascolarctos cinereus) – a distinctive Australian animal – has dramatically declined in recent years due to rampant wildfires and disease.
In 2022, the Australian government listed koalas as an endangered species.
Previous conservation efforts relied on modern devices such as thermal drones and recording equipment to detect koalas. However, these methods are quite expensive and not always effective.
According to experts from the University of Queensland, applying kitchen filter cloths in wildlife conservation is considered a breakthrough. The researchers noted that this new DNA sampling device is less costly and requires simpler operational skills.
Evolutionary biologist Celine Frere from the University of Queensland, a member of the research team, stated: “It’s very simple. Residents, landowners, and even students can use these filters.”
Furthermore, the new study has added another tool for scientists in the field of environmental DNA (eDNA) detection.
Experts have been drawing air from zoos and forests, wiping plant surfaces, and even checking filters from air pollution monitoring stations for eDNA.
“Some of the work in this study is truly an important first step,” said ecologist Matthew Barnes from Texas Tech University in Lubbock.
However, the experiment took place in an uncontrolled environment, where numerous uncertainties exist, and there is a risk that strong winds or rain could affect the results.
“The fact that they were still able to achieve some real success is encouraging,” Barnes added.
Currently, Frere and her team are building a genetic data library for various animal and plant species. Through this, the team can collect reference materials to enhance eDNA detection.
