Fungi, Drones and eDNA

Eucalypt-fungi relationships change in response to degrading health of Eucalypts associated invasive shrub Lantana

Braden Willows – UniSQ Toowoomba Masters student

The Eucalypt forests of South East Queensland are home to an incredible range of fungi that are foundational to health of these iconic ecosystems, yet are relatively unknown. Illuminating relationship between these critical fungal symbionts of Eucalypts is crucial to understanding their health. By utilising promising field of eDNA, this project aims to explore how Eucalypt-fungi relationships change in response to degrading health of Eucalypts associated invasive shrub Lantana, and to develop a practical, rapid measure of Eucalypt ecosystem health based on these relationships.

Using environmental DNA methods to detect invasive invertebrates in northern Australia

Dr Cecilia Villacorta-Rath – JCU Townsville, Senior Research Officer, TropWATER

Cecilia will explore use of environmental DNA (eDNA) methods for detection of invasive invertebrates in northern Australia, including species of biosecurity concern such as invasive ants. She will discuss current state of technology, its applications for surveillance and early detection, and key challenges for its implementation.

Using underwater drones to cull invasive sea urchins to protect vital marine habitats

Alicia Dunn – Sweep Deep, Tasmania

Inspired by work of Adam Cropp from Teleport.net who studying his PhD at James Cook University, Alicia Dunn from Sweep Deep will explore use of cutting-edge robotics to tackle critical environmental challenges above and below water. Alicia will highlight their current mission in Tasmania, where their underwater drones are actively culling invasive sea urchins (Centrostephanus rodgersii) to protect vital marine habitats. Finally, Alicia will share insights on development of world’s first marine debris-collecting underwater drone and how such automated technology  is transforming ocean conservation.