Implementation options for DNA-based identification into ecological status assessment under the European Water Framework Directive Meise Botanic Garden
Assessment of ecological status for the European Water Framework Directive (WFD) is based on “Biological Quality Elements” (BQEs), namely phytoplankton, benthic flora, benthic invertebrates and fish. Morphological identification of these organisms is a time-consuming and expensive procedure. Here, we assess the options for complementing and, perhaps, replacing morphological identification with identification using eDNA, metabarcoding or similar ...