University of Florida researchers have launched a new high-tech weapon in the fight against invasive species lurking in the state’s waterways. By scanning just a few drops of water for genetic “footprints,” scientists can now detect the presence of Asian swamp eels and bullseye snakeheads, two predatory fish that have spent years silently expanding their territory through the Everglades and South Florida canals.
The breakthrough, developed by teams at the UF/IFAS Fort Lauderdale Research and Education Center, relies on environmental DNA, or eDNA.
This refers to the tiny bits of skin, mucus, or waste that animals naturally shed into their environment. Because these fish are often nocturnal or burrow deep into the mud during the day, they are notoriously difficult to find using traditional methods like nets or even electricity.
“In this study, we were able to take this new approach and apply it to real-world situations that gave positive results on both species,” said Brian Bahder, an associate professor at UF/IFAS and the senior author of the study. He noted that the precision of this digital PCR approach is a game-changer for monitoring, as it “allows detection of a single cell in a water sample.”
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The timing is critical for the ongoing multi-billion-dollar restoration of the Everglades. While experts are working to “get the water right” for native plants and animals, there is a risk that improved water flow could inadvertently help invasive species spread even faster.
“A big concern for Everglades restoration is what will happen with invasive species when we succeed,” explained Sergio Balaguera-Reina, a research assistant scientist with the “Croc Docs” team. “When we get the water right it could boost them to the point we can’t eradicate them. This is why detecting them, followed by eradication and control efforts as soon as possible is paramount.”
Traditional search methods, such as daytime electrofishing—where a mild current temporarily stuns fish so they can be counted—often miss these invaders. According to Melissa Miller, a research assistant scientist who co-leads the Croc Docs, these fish are “often hidden during daylight hours,” making them nearly invisible to standard surveys. This new tool, however, can identify both species from a single water sample, even in the murkiest conditions.
While the lab results are promising—detecting snakehead DNA within just five minutes of a fish entering a tank—the researchers say technology is only half the battle. They are calling on the public to continue reporting sightings through the IveGot1 app or website to help direct where the new DNA testing should be deployed.
“Scientists cannot always sample everywhere, and public involvement in reporting sightings of invasive wildlife and fish remains critical,” Balaguera-Reina added. By combining high-tech genetic surveillance with eyes on the ground, Florida officials hope to protect the state’s native ecosystems from being overwhelmed by these silent invaders.
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