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10-Minute Presentation

Plant-Insect Ecosystems

10-min: P-IE, IPM - Field Crops

Environmental DNA-based detection of arthropod pests in foliage and subterranean habitats across managed landscapes

Sunday, November 9, 2025
8:48 AM - 9:00 AM Pacific
Location: Oregon Convention Center, E143-144, OCC
Oral Presentation
Environmental DNA, commonly referred to as eDNA, is the genetic material that all organisms—whether alive or dead—leave behind in their environments. This opens the door to a novel method for detecting and identifying arthropod pests without relying on conventional techniques. Our objective was to detect a broad range of arthropod pests across different systems, including greenhouses, open fields, and metro parks. We also examined the longevity of eDNA in both greenhouses and open fields to evaluate its potential impact on pest detection. Our findings indicate that eDNA is a more sensitive approach for detecting pests compared to traditional visual scouting for spotted lanternflies. Furthermore, we noted that a single sweet potato whitefly can leave enough eDNA for accurate detection. In both greenhouse and open-field conditions, we found that eDNA from green peach aphids remained detectable for up to 7 days. Lastly, we plan to implement eDNA as a more comprehensive method for assessing the effects of land management in field agriculture.