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Research Accomplishments
Milestones
Next Generation of Condition Indicators
Ecosystem Services Research Program has developed novel indicators using new genetic methods and approaches to the use of remote sensing to evaluate the condition of ecological resources. Since 2005, noteworthy outcomes have resulted in the study of endocrine disruptors, the use of DNA barcoding to identify new indicators, and the determination of the role of isolated wetlands in protecting surface water quality.
Molecular Techniques
Biologically active concentrations of endocrine disrupting compounds (EDCs) have been detected in surface waters across the United States. Though the negative effects of EDCs on reproduction have been well documented in controlled laboratory studies, their effects on wild populations of aquatic organisms remain unknown.
ESRP has developed molecular techniques to indicate the exposure of fish to EDCs. Used in the Environmental Monitoring and Assessment Program (EMAP) for Great River Ecosystems, these techniques have proved applicable in the study of EDC exposure among wild fish populations. These techniques also offer promising new approaches to a broad range of similar diagnostic issues.
In addition, the techniques were used by Environment Canada in a long-term study of chronic EDC exposures to wild fish. An article describing this study, published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, is the first evidence in the literature to demonstrate that the concentrations of estrogens and their mimics observed in freshwaters can impact the sustainability of wild fish populations.
Collapse of a fish population after exposure to a synthetic estrogen 
M. Lazorchak, and Robert W. Flick
Karen A. Kidd, Paul J. Blanchfield, Kenneth H. Mills, Vince P. Palace, Robert E. Evans, James
doi:10.1073/pnas.0609568104
PNAS published online May 21, 2007;
DNA Barcoding
Benthic or bottom dwelling invertebrates are used as indicators of stream condition. However, classifying and differentiating benthic invertebrates is expensive, time consuming, and in many cases almost impossible using current microscopic techniques. ESRP is developing DNA barcoding methods for identifying invertebrates, which will enable more rapid and more accurate bioassessment of the condition of streams using invertebrates.
The ESRP is using DNA barcoding to better understand the risks of invasive species to the Great Lakes ecosystem - and at a significantly reduced cost over traditional monitoring methods. In one dramatic example, DNA barcoding enabled EPA researchers to confirm the presence of the invasive quagga mussel - positively identifying one specimen from among over 20,000 mussels. The quagga mussel poses a potentially serious threat to the Duluth/Superior harbor on Lake Superior. As a result of early identification, steps can be taken to reduce the impacts of this species on the harbor.