Decoding the Helix: Biodiversity & Environmental DNA – A Wetlands Symposium @TWCC

Name: Decoding the Helix: Biodiversity & Environmental DNA – A Wetlands Symposium @TWCC
Start: 2024-11-22T09:00:00+08:00
End: 2024-11-22T14:30:00+08:00
Location: 184 Hope Rd, Bibra Lake WA 6163, Australia

Schedule

Fri Nov 22 2024 at 09:00 am to 02:30 pm

UTC+08:00

Location

184 Hope Rd, Bibra Lake WA 6163, Australia | Perth, WA

DECODING THE HELIX: a Wetlands Symposium on eDNA
Delve into Wetland Biodiversity: Exploring Environmental DNA (eDNA)

Date: Friday, 22 November 2024
Time: 9:00 AM – 2:15 PM
Location: The Wetlands Centre Cockburn, 184 Hope Road, Bibra Lake WA 6163
Environmental DNA (eDNA) is transforming how we monitor biodiversity and understand ecosystems. By analysing genetic material present in water or soil samples, eDNA allows scientists to detect species that are otherwise invisible, including elusive or endangered organisms. This revolutionary tool is becoming essential in managing and conserving the diverse life found in Western Australia’s wetlands, a critical ecological network at risk from climate change and urban development.
Join us for an immersive day at The Wetlands Centre Cockburn, where conservationists and community scientists will guide you through the methods and discoveries in eDNA research. Supported by Community Bank Fremantle—Bendigo Bank and Curtin University, this symposium is part of The Wetlands Centre's ongoing efforts to promote sustainable practices and advance our knowledge of wetland ecosystems.
Environmental DNA (eDNA) is transforming biodiversity monitoring by allowing the detection of species from genetic material in the environment. Whether found in water or soil, eDNA offers a non-invasive way to identify elusive and endangered organisms. This innovative approach is vital for preserving Western Australia's wetlands—one of the region’s most valuable ecological systems threatened by climate change and urban expansion.

Event Schedule
9:00 AM – 9:15 AM: Welcome and Coffee/Tea
9:15 AM – 10:45 AM:
Introduction to eDNA and Urban Biodiversity
Guided Walk: Birding and Botany Walk with Water Sampling
10:45 AM – 11:00 AM: Morning Tea
11:00 AM – 12:30 PM:
Introduction to eDNA Techniques
Invertebrates under the Microscope
Interactive eDNA Sampling and Data Analysis
12:30 PM – 1:00 PM: Lunch
1:00 PM – 1:20 PM:
Developing a Wetland Health Index
Case Studies: eDNA for Monitoring Biodiversity
1:20 PM – 2:10 PM: Focus Talks (10 minutes each)
Dr Mieke van der Heyde: Innovations in eDNA for tracking subterranean biodiversity
Dr Matt Campbell: Using ancient sediments to reveal past ecosystems
Assoc. Prof. Bill Bateman: Predator-prey interactions and tiger snake toxins
Will Roocke: Citizen science uncovering backyard biodiversity through eDNA
Dr Kat Dawkins: Detecting endangered freshwater crayfish with innovative eDNA methods
2:10 PM – 2:15 PM: Wrap-Up
What to Expect
– Gain insights from leading researchers about innovative eDNA methods and their applications.
– Participate in hands-on activities, including invertebrate studies and data analysis.
– Enjoy guided birding and botany walks around Bibra Lake.
– Connect with conservationists, scientists, and fellow participants over refreshments.
What to Bring
– Comfortable shoes for walking
– Hat, sunscreen, and a reusable water bottle
– Notebook and pen for notes
Provided: Morning tea, lunch, insect repellent
Meet the Experts
– Dr Mieke van der Heyde: Monitoring dark biodiversity through subterranean fauna studies.
– Dr Matt Campbell: Exploring ancient ecosystems using eDNA from sediment layers.
– Assoc. Prof. Bill Bateman: Expert in predator-prey dynamics and toxin biology.
– Will Roocke: Citizen scientist uncovering biodiversity through backyard eDNA projects.
– Dr Kat Dawkins: Specialist in using eDNA to detect endangered freshwater crayfish.

Sponsors
This event is sponsored by Bendigo Bank as part of our Wetland Symposiums.
Don’t miss this exciting journey into the world of eDNA and wetland conservation! Register today to secure your spot and be part of a growing movement committed to safeguarding Western Australia’s biodiversity.