eDNA assessment of the distribution, abundance and reproductive status of freshwater pearl mussels in Scotland to inform species conservation needs

Pearl mussels Margeritifera margeritifera are extirpated from much of Europe. However Scotland remains a stronghold though many of its river stocks have been lost or are in decline. Under the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 it is an offence to intentionally or recklessly kill, injure, take or disturb mussels and their habitat, and in-river engineering work (e.g. bank stabilization and construction of roads, fishing jetties, dams and weirs) requires SEPA authorisation and a demonstration there is no impact on mussels.

Knowledge of Scottish mussel distribution is incomplete and in many cases outdated. As such the overall conservation status of contemporary populations is uncertain as is the presence of the species in many locations where engineering work is proposed. Thus in locations where mussels may be present, based on suitable habitat, surveys are required to determine if they are present so mitigation measures to protect them during development can be taken if required. Industrial sectors such as the whisky industry have identified regulatory requirements related to pearl mussel protection as a key environmental management challenge facing distillery development and operation. Yet gaining insight into mussel distribution using traditional visual surveys is expensive, time consuming and with a significant risk of missing their presence at low mussel densities. However, environmental DNA (eDNA) methods, an emerging biodiversity monitoring approach, offer a potential solution. They allow detection of aquatic species by the analysis of DNA from cells shed by individuals that can be extracted from riverine and lacustrine water, can help address this management challenge and DNA based methods can potentially be used to inform other issues such as the species reproductive status.

The proposed project will involve some DNA marker development work in association with a closely related studentship. However, its main focus will be on the field validation of practical DNA based protocols for accurately, rapidly and cost-effectively detecting the presence, abundance and reproductive status of freshwater pearl mussel. This will involve addressing issues related to the best way of temporally and spatially sampling water in rivers to most accurately and cost-effectively provide insight into the species’ distribution and abundance to inform conservation needs and environmental impact assessments. Additionally, the project will involve carrying out intensive and extensive river surveys to provide a contemporary account of the state of Scottish pearl mussel stocks. The student will also undertake parallel surveys using traditional approaches and assess the relative strengths and weaknesses of DNA based and traditional methods.

Applicants must possess a minimum of an Honours degree at 2:1 and/or a Master’s Degree (or International equivalent) in a relevant subject.

To apply please complete the standard application form, attaching supporting documentation and send to: [Email Address Removed]

Informal project specific enquiries can be made to: [Email Address Removed], [Email Address Removed]

This project is being offered in conjunction with another fully funded studentship on a similar topic (funded by SNH): Genomic Tools for Pearl Mussel Conservation (https://www.findaphd.com/search/ProjectDetails.aspx?PJID=85676&LID=4079)

Supervisory Team
The supervisory team for the studentship will encompass Professor Eric Verspoor and Drs Mark Coulson and Barbara Morrissey of the Rivers and Lochs Institute. Iain Sime of Scottish Natural Heritage will be a project advisor.

Research Facilities and Environment
The student will be based at the Rivers and Loch Institute at the University of the Highlands and Islands Inverness College on the new Inverness Campus. They will be part of a small, but growing, dynamic team of researchers working on aquatic biodiversity conservation and management. The RLI is internationally recognized for its expertise in the development of molecular genetic markers, applied molecular population genetics, biodiversity management, and biodiversity evolution. The Institute provides a stimulating and vibrant research environment, supported by a state-of-the-art molecular genomics facility encompassing Sanger and NexGen sequencing systems, qPCR, and high throughput DNA fragment analysis instrumentation. It offers high level technical, and in-house bioinformatics, computing and statistical support. The project is one of a number being carried out at the RLIl on eDNA, DNA barcoding, and metabarcoding of biodiversity in freshwater ecosystems and coastal marine ecosystems. Project field work will be supported by the RLI’s new fully equipped mobile field laboratory. In support of the programme of work, the student will receive training in manuscript writing and research presentation as well as engage in-house seminars in research skill development, and contribute to weekly journal club/work presentation meetings. There will also be opportunities to attend relevant national and international conferences.

Informal project specific enquiries can be made to: [Email Address Removed]