Initial results from our species survey using eDNA

To see whether and how our work affects biodiversity in our protected areas, a measurement tool such as eDNA is worth its weight in gold. After all, we don’t just want to pay lip service to nature conservation; we want to put it into practice in a meaningful and efficient way. In June 2024, we collected 19 samples on site from three different ecosystem types; 10 of these were water samples and 9 were surface samples.

The majority have already been analysed, and the results speak for themselves: both the freshwater and saltwater samples reveal an enormous level of biodiversity. No fewer than 102 insect species can be found in the freshwater of the moors and rivers. Among them are a large number of beetle and midge species. Furthermore, other classes such as arachnids, branchiopods, clitellates, collembola, diplopods and hexanauplia are represented. On average, 31 species per sample were identified and catalogued. The resulting high level of evolutionary diversity indicates that the ecosystem under investigation is resilient.

Several species of mammals were also recorded: in addition to amphibians such as the western toad and the cross-toothed newt, there were also many birds – including, of course, the bald eagle – as well as voles and a mink.

The first survey of species on Porcher Island now provides a solid foundation for future research. The baseline has been established; now time will tell how conditions and biodiversity change over the course of time. However,

as there is currently a lack of reliable comparative data from other environments and ecosystems, it will be particularly interesting to see what happens once more of this data becomes available from other locations. For example, in a few years’ time, it might be possible to compare the figures for a sparsely populated area with those for a densely populated one. Or to investigate how sustainable farming methods, such as agroforestry practices, affect biodiversity.

The possibilities seem almost endless – provided the data allows it. We continue to work tirelessly to ensure transparency and raise awareness: the data from the surface samples are still being analysed. However, the initial results show that it is worthwhile to establish novel methods, such as eDNA sampling, in our biodiversity monitoring programme. 

We are also extremely keen to see the results of our survey in Peru.² Data analysis has begun there too. Thanks to the initial findings, we are now even more eager to receive the data from Peru.