Combining eDNA and Museomics to Enhance Biodiversity Monitoring

Biodiversity changes due to human activities highlight the need for efficient biodiversity monitoring approaches. Environmental DNA (eDNA) metabarcoding offers a non-invasive method to assess species distributions, but its accuracy depends on comprehensive DNA reference databases. Natural history museum collections often contain rare or difficult to obtain samples that could be used as a resource to fill gaps in eDNA reference databases. In the present paper, we evaluated the potential of retrieving DNA sequences from fish museum specimens using commercial kits and custom protocol for museum specimens. We then discuss how museomics – the application of -omics techniques to museum specimens – not only has the potential to improve eDNA reference databases but could also lead to transferable methodological advancements. Combining the field of museomics and eDNA could enhance our understanding of global biodiversity and highlight the value of natural history collections.