Cooperative Agreement for affiliated Partner with the North Atlantic Coast Cooperative Ecosystem Studies Unit
USGS seeks a partner to co-develop and conduct research using environmental DNA sampling to detect small populations of Coconut Rhinoceros Beetle in Hawaii, supporting biosecurity and monitoring programs.
Funder: Geological Survey
Due Dates: July 5, 2026: Full application deadline
Funding Amounts: Up to $292,531 total for one award; project duration up to 3 years
Summary: Supports research by a North Atlantic Coast CESU partner to evaluate detection of Coconut Rhinoceros Beetle in Hawaii using environmental DNA.
Key Information: Applicants must be a participating partner of the North Atlantic Coast CESU.
Description
This opportunity, offered by the US Geological Survey (USGS), funds a Cooperative Ecosystem Studies Unit (CESU) partner to conduct research on detecting small populations of the Coconut Rhinoceros Beetle (CRB, Oryctes rhinoceros) in the Hawaiian Islands using environmental DNA (eDNA) sampling. The project aims to rigorously test eDNA as an emerging technology for invasive species detection, focusing on sampling from palm tree trunks and assessing detection probability in relation to population size and proximity to pheromone lures.
The selected CESU partner will collaborate with USGS scientists to:
- Co-develop sampling design and site selection
- Conduct field sampling and laboratory assays for eDNA detection
- Analyze and interpret results in partnership with USGS
- Inform monitoring programs for biosecurity, including Department of War and port monitoring initiatives
The research will advance surveillance methods for invasive species, directly supporting national security, military readiness, and conservation of Pacific Island ecosystems.
