First eDNA metabarcoding survey of the distribution of endangered Nooksack dace in urban watersheds of British Columbia – 16S dataset

We tested multi-marker environmental DNA (eDNA) metabarcoding for detecting Nooksack dace and co-occurring fish communities at thirteen sites within its fragmented distribution in southwestern British Columbia.

Twelve native and ten non-native fish species were detected across two markers and two sampling years. Nooksack dace detections within the Nooksack River watershed were generally consistent with historical data; they were not detected in the Brunette River or other potentially suitable areas sampled. Results suggest eDNA metabarcoding is an effective, high-sensitivity tool for monitoring Nooksack dace populations and assessing species distribution and recovery.