Conclusion
Robust data are necessary to assess and improve ecological status.
Conventional methods are usually invasive or even destructive. To
increase the use of novel non-invasive methods, validation is necessary.
This study demonstrated that eDNA metabarcoding can provide valuable
data for ecological interpretation. The synthesis of eDNA-based data
with environmental data measured by mobile multiparameter devices has
great potential to substitute conventional fish monitoring. Moreover, a
combined analysis of both data types is suitable for addressing
fundamental ecological questions. This research has contributed to a
better understanding of eDNA dynamics and will motivate stakeholders for
broader application. The application of eDNA metabarcoding for
biomonitoring in heterogeneous ecosystems is a huge step forward to
reach high quality data with a non-invasive method that is worthy of the
21st century.