DNA Barcoding of Trichobilharzia (Trematoda: Schistosomatidae) Species and Their Detection in eDNA Water Samples

We designed and tested species-specific PCR primers to detect Trichobilharzia species via environmental DNA (eDNA) barcoding in selected Austrian water bodies. Tests were performed with eDNA samples from the field as well artificial lab, where snails releasing cercariae kept aquariums. From two localities, was documented based on release of snails, enabling morphological identification. In both cases, corresponding detected eDNA: szidati physellae. Nonetheless, stochasticity high replicates. tests aquarium into which had been released allowed detection even after 44 days. As PCRs field, positive results these experiments not obtained for all sensitivity dilution series T. genomic amplification products yielded successful down concentrations 0.83 pg/µL 0.008 pg/µL, respectively. Our indicate that presumed specificity may be guaranteed, if specific species. This entails misidentification risks, particularly areas incomplete inventories.