Nicola Thomson
Masters student
Chironex fleckeri is a significant threat to human health and the tourism industry in Australia. This deadly creature leads to the closure of popular beaches and bays for extended periods, impacting local tourism economies. However, current methods of detection are often unreliable and time-consuming, relying on observation of the animals. To address this issue, researchers are turning to eDNA as a detection tool. eDNA involves the forensic detection of tiny amounts of DNA released by the target organism into the environment. It is cost-effective, rapid, and requires fewer resources than traditional methods. The specific aims of my project include the following: (1) developing and testing LFAs for in-field detection of C. fleckeri; (2) comparing the results with traditional lab-based workflows, and validating the in-field detection method at jellyfish hotspots. The research group has already developed a highly sensitive eDNA detection TaqMan assay for C. fleckeri, facilitating the development of the in-field workflow and related detection