Measuring neotropical bat diversity using airborne eDNA

This thesis develops the novel technique of capturing airborne eDNA for the detection of tropical bat species. In chapter two, I use an artificial mixed species community to test three prototype samplers and validate airborne eDNA as a survey method. I demonstrate that airborne eDNA can accurately characterize a mixed species community with varying abundances and that the type of sampler does not impact DNA concentration or read count. In chapter three, I used airborne eDNA to survey 12 known or suspected bat roosts in Orange Walk District, Belize. I identified 23 taxa, 11 of which were bats. This thesis adds to the body of research that seeks to better understand airborne eDNA and its potential applications. Based on the data presented as well as those from other studies, airborne eDNA could be a valuable tool in the monitoring of biodiversity.