A rare and exciting sighting occurred in the Pākuratahi Catchment near Napier: an adult kōaro (Galaxias brevipinnis), one of New Zealand’s native whitebait species, was observed—an important indicator of thriving freshwater ecosystems.
Wilderlab’s Role: Illuminating Presence with eDNA
Using environmental DNA (eDNA) techniques, Wilderlab can detect kōaro even when individuals are not visible. By collecting and analysing water samples, researchers can:
- Identify kōaro in shaded, boulder-strewn streams.
- Track both adult and juvenile distributions using species-specific markers.
- Provide councils and communities with data to assess freshwater biodiversity and inform conservation planning.
This approach complements traditional surveys, offering reliable, early detection and supporting timely conservation action.
Learn more:
Photo NZ Herald
