Exploring the uses and value of invertebrate DNA metabarcoding

Abstract

This thesis reviews and explores the use of DNA metabarcoding techniques on invertebrates, moving beyond biodiversity audits to improve monitoring capabilities in terrestrial ecosystems. Here, metabarcoding is used to look at fine scale differences in arthropod biodiversity, foraging behaviour of native bees, and even to track vertebrate populations. This body of work demonstrates the immense value of this technique to monitor how whole ecosystems respond to change.