Unlocking natural history collections to improve eDNA reference databases and biodiversity monitoring

Abstract

Biodiversity changes due to human activities highlight the need for efficient biodiversity monitoring approaches. Environmental DNA (eDNA) metabarcoding offers a noninvasive method used for biodiversity monitoring and ecosystem assessment, but its accuracy depends on comprehensive DNA reference databases. Natural history collections often contain rare or difficult-to-obtain samples that can serve as a valuable resource to fill gaps in eDNA reference databases. In the present article, we discuss the utility of specimens from natural history collections in supporting future eDNA applications. Museomics—the application of -omics techniques to museum specimens—offers a promising avenue for improving eDNA reference databases by increasing species coverage. Furthermore, museomics can provide transferable methodological advancements for extracting genetic material from samples with low and degraded DNA. The integration of natural history collections, museomics, and eDNA approaches has the potential to significantly improve our understanding of global biodiversity, highlighting the continued importance of natural history collections.