Data analysis
Diet analyses with DNA metabarcoding
We perform fecal DNA metabarcoding data analyses, in collaborations with the University of Groningen and GBIF (DietBank), to describe the diets of various species or species communities. Our focus is on insectivorous birds, but fecal DNA metabarcoding is also used to describe trophic interactions and identify organisms that play an important role in ecosystems.
Monitoring something as basic and crucial as (bird) diets is surprisingly challenging, especially when both prey and predators are small, hence our specialization. We believe that DNA metabarcoding of bird droppings is a viable research and monitoring tool to generate useful knowledge to improve habitat quality and biodiversity.
Other potential applications include determining avian prey taxa that play a role in transport of nutrients and chemicals between areas, or using bird droppings as a sampling method to survey changes in local insect communities, for example to monitor the effect of measures (or threats such as pesticide use).
download article : Diet analyses of little terns breeding at Marker Wadden using DNA metabarcoding
Network members
Lowland Ecology Network
The Lowland Ecology Network is a network of freelancers who focus on ecological research, advice and communication. The emphasis is on nature protection of wetlands at home and abroad. Each participant has specific expertise and as a network we can respond fast and quickly solve complex issues. We are wel connected with experts on subjects such as photography / film, design and nature legislation.
Network members
