This study compares systematic versus exploratory search strategies for locating rare plants. Surprisingly, both methods performed equally, with low detection overall. Challenges such as navigation difficulty and multitasking may explain the results. The findings highlight the need for improved search methods to better identify and protect rare, threatened plant species.
This research shows how environmental DNA (eDNA) can rapidly and sensitively detect marine species threatened by climate change. By analysing seawater samples, the study identified over 18,800 species and revealed fine-scale ecological shifts. eDNA offers a powerful, scalable tool to monitor coastal ecosystems and protect vulnerable species as environmental conditions worsen.