Using eDNA to Explore Bottlenose Dolphin (Tursiops aduncus) Prey and Predator Distribution in Shark Bay, Western Australia (by Manuela Bizzozzero)

By Manuela Bizzozzero, PhD Candidate at Institute of Evolutionary Anthropology in Zurich, Switzerland and 2023 eDNA Collaborative Microgrant recipient

The Indo-Pacific bottlenose dolphins (Tursiops aduncus) in Shark Bay exhibit a rich behavioural repertoire. They show a unique social system with several layers of alliances. Some individuals are even proficient tool users utilising shells or sponges to forage. However, little is known about how the habitat influences the complex behaviours of these dolphins that have been studied for decades.

Figure 1: Impressions of the field work in Shark Bay, Western Australia. Photos including dolphins: ©Shark Bay Dolphin Research

The analysis of environmental DNA presents us with a valuable opportunity to explore the dolphins’ environment. By collecting environmental DNA samples throughout our study site and analysing them with specific primers, I aim to explore the dolphins' prey and predator distribution. Integrating this data with satellite-derived information and behavioural observations of the Shark Bay Dolphin Research Project, I hope to gain insights into their behavioural ecology.

This is relevant as Shark Bay, like many other world heritage zones, has been impacted by climate change. Severe heatwaves have led to a significant decline of the seagrass beds that are integral to the dolphins' habitat. Understanding the key habitat components for the bottlenose dolphin population is crucial for their conservation.

I am incredibly grateful to have received a microgrant from the eDNA Collaborative. This valuable opportunity allows me to participate in a Physalia course, which will enhance my data analysis skills and enable me to derive meaningful insights from my multivariate data.