ABSTRACT
ABSTRACT The Reclamation Detection Laboratory for Exotic Species (RDLES), Denver, CO, is one of the leading laboratories in the western United States for the detection of invasive species. RDLES’s primary role is the detection of invasive dreissenid mussel populations in raw water samples. RDLES focuses on identifying the larval (veliger) life stage, as the veliger is free ¬oating in the water column,allowing for increased discovery before adult populations overtake awater body. Multiple testing methods to determine if raw water samples are free of dreissenid mussel larvae are utilized. Studies performed by RDLES have allowed for the optimization of every aspect of the detection process, from sample collection and preservation to increased genetic testing sensitivity. This chapter will focus on advancements in microscopy, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), polymerase chain reaction (PCR), ¬ow cell cytometry (VeligerCam™) for detection of invasive dreissenids, as well as adiscussion of laboratory studies conducted to better understand the prevalence of cross-contamination in the ‘eld and laboratory and the likelihood of a contaminate being detected by microscopy or PCR.
