RECENT ENVIRONMENTAL DNA (eDNA) TESTING RESULTS DODGES FERRY

Our recent environmental DNA (eDNA) testing across three local waterways in the Dodges Ferry area detected 325 species from 11 life kingdoms. Life kingdoms are categories of biological classification e.g animals, plants, fungi, bacteria.

Findings include:

• No platypus DNA was found, despite the recent sighting of a deceased platypus.
• Eastern barred bandicoot DNA was detected in one of the sites.
• Several common weed species, such as black mustard, were identified across multiple sites.

We now have a clearer picture of the range of biodiversity in these creeks and ponds.

What we will do now:

• Use the findings to prioritise habitat monitoring and protection in areas where threatened native species like the eastern barred bandicoot are present.
• Focus our reserve Management Plan weed management efforts where invasive species were most frequently detected.

We will continue to work closely with our local Landcare groups and community to protect and enhance our valued community open space and reserves, using this data to support evidence-based conservation and management planning.