Eight Tips for Using eDNA to Study Terrestrial Vertebrates

Environmental DNA (eDNA) is an increasingly popular tool for detection, monitoring and characterising biodiversity. However, implementing eDNA-based approaches in terrestrial environments is more complex than in aquatic environments due to the many potential substrates, low and variable detection probabilities, lack of standardised sampling and laboratory protocols, contamination and detection biases, and interpretation challenges. Here, we provide tips to help terrestrial vertebrate biologists and natural resource managers better implement terrestrial eDNA (non-aquatic eDNA) techniques. We focus on sampling, laboratory protocols and interpretation because of their direct impact on the robustness of eDNA studies. Each point we discuss identifies potential sources of errors and provides recommendations to redress and fast-track the use of eDNA approaches in terrestrial biomonitoring.