Scientists can now identify the most harmful pollutants present in UK waters that are having the biggest impact on biodiversity thanks to pioneering AI technology developed at the University of Birmingham, a new study published in Environmental DNA has revealed.
The new technology allowed the team of scientists to analyse water and biofilm samples from 52 freshwater lakes across the country, efficiently and effectively sifting through reams of complex data to find key links between the presence of pollutants and biodiversity loss. The data concluded that insecticides and fungicides were the main factors affecting biodiversity, along with 43 other physico-chemical factors, including heavy metals and alkalinity.
Lead author of the study Dr Niamh Eastwood explained: “Up until now, DNA-based methods have been used to estimate changes in indicator species, or species groups , such as diatoms, but have tended to focus on individual environmental factors like temperature or pH, overlooking the complex interaction between biodiversity and environmental change.
"This narrow approach is now insufficient to address the complexities of a world facing multiple stressors and rapidly emerging threats to water and wildlife. The results from our study highlighted the severe impact that insecticides and fungicides from agricultural runoff have on aquatic ecosystems. It is clear that these chemicals are harming many more species than those which they are intended for, which makes them of great concern.”
Senior author Professor Luisa Orsini added: “Protecting biodiversity is more important than ever. Effective conservation goes beyond looking at how single environmental factors affect individual species. Instead, it requires understanding of how these factors interact with climate and other environmental changes to drive overall biodiversity loss.
“Our innovative, data-driven approach embraces the complexity of natural systems, while providing actional targets for regulators. By analysing vast amounts of data, we can uncover which environmental factors have the greatest impact on sensitive species.
“This insight is key to developing targeted, effective conservation strategies that can address the root causes of biodiversity decline and help preserve our planet's ecosystems. With this approach, we aim to pave the way for smarter, science-backed conservation efforts that safeguard the natural world for future generations."
