Eastern Pine Snake eDNA Detection Assay Validation Data

A novel quantitative PCR assay targeting the NADH dehydrogenase subunit 4 gene region was developed for detecting the eastern pine snake (Pituophis melanoleucus). The assay was validated for specificity and sensitivity using DNA from tissues and shed skins of heterospecific species and applied to environmental DNA from soil samples. Peyton G. Kinavey published this research on figshare in April 2026.

Use Cases

• Validate species-specific primers for eDNA detection based on the ND4 gene region described in the methods.
• Complement traditional survey techniques like camera traps and visual surveys using the described soil eDNA assay.
• Assess assay sensitivity and specificity for detecting the eastern pine snake as outlined in the results.
• Apply the developed primer set to field samples for non-invasive population monitoring as discussed.

Strengths

• The assay was validated for specificity and sensitivity against heterospecific species.
• The primer set targets a specific gene region (ND4) for species detection.
• The method is described as an efficient, noninvasive tool complementing traditional surveys.

Limitations

• Description metadata is limited; actual data quality requires manual inspection after download.
• Column-level documentation is absent; field semantics must be inferred after download.
• The dataset is a 129.5 KB PDF, indicating limited scope and likely a research paper rather than raw data.

Provenance

Source

figshare

Collection Method

Primers and assay conditions were developed and validated using DNA from tissues, shed skins, and soil eDNA.

Freshness

Last updated 2026-04-29 05:58:22; freshness should be verified.

Geography

Southeastern United States, where the eastern pine snake occurs.