By Jamie Martin
Researchers at Curtin University have introduced a groundbreaking method to improve crop yields and promote sustainable farming using eDNA metabarcoding. This cutting-edge technology identifies pollinators, pests, and predators through DNA traces left on plants.
In a study on avocado flowers, scientists collected and analyzed flower samples to detect insect interactions. Dr. Joshua Kestel explained, “We use eDNA metabarcoding to effectively amplify the DNA from whatever interacts with that flower and that lets us work out who was there. We are literally able to detect the footprints of a bee.”
This method outperforms digital video recordings, identifying five times the number of pest species. By understanding the specific pollinators and pests affecting crops, farmers can adopt more efficient and targeted approaches.
For avocado crops, where honeybees are less effective pollinators, eDNA metabarcoding helps reveal the role of native pollinators. Additionally, it aids in detecting predators that can naturally manage pests, reducing the need for broad-spectrum pesticides.
Dr. Kestel emphasized the potential benefits, stating, “At the moment, we manage these pests with very generalized methods, which comes at a huge cost, as the pesticides kill the wild pollinators and the natural predators, not just the pests you want to be rid of.”
Although still in its early stages, eDNA metabarcoding offers immense promise for agriculture, allowing farmers to boost efficiency, improve yields, and reduce environmental impact.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-eugenesergeev
Categories: National