Native aquatic species living in more than 200 locations across South-East Queensland will be monitored through a million-dollar environmental DNA (eDNA) program.
Led by Resilient Rivers SEQ, and delivered by Wildlife Queensland, data collected will help to support future conservation efforts including vital habitat restoration and waterway management.
State Environment and Tourism Minister Andrew Powell said the $1.2 million program would kick off at sites in Brisbane, Logan, Ipswich, Sunshine Coast and Moreton Bay using innovative monitoring to uncover data on the region’s native species including platypus, rakali, freshwater turtles, lungfish, frogs, and endangered Mary River cod.
Minister Powell said it was the first regionally coordinated eDNA monitoring program across 11 South East Queensland councils.
“It also marks the first time cutting-edge eDNA testing will be conducted in Noosa and the Sunshine Coast to create a comprehensive biodiversity snapshot across the south-east.”
Minister Powell said the program would include community workshops, citizen science activities, and an interactive online map helping connect residents with their local environment.
“This will build on a decade of community-led monitoring through Wildlife Queensland including the PlatyCount campaign, which has already surveyed more than 300 sites.”
Wildlife Queensland Platypus Officer Dr Tamielle Brunt said eDNA was revolutionising how aquatic life was monitored.
“By analysing water samples for traces of DNA, we can detect hundreds of species and gain a comprehensive picture of life beneath the surface.”
