Sightings of platypus and water rats could soon provide valuable information to researchers.
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The Australian Platypus Conservancy will soon begin a project to study platypus and water rat distribution in the Campaspe and Coliban rivers.
Platypus are often painted as shy and elusive, but according to researcher Geoff Williams, they’re no harder to spot than many native species.
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A visual survey can provide scientists with a suprisingly accurate picture of platypus and water rat populations, and how they change over time. The information gathered can be used to address things which might be threatening populations.
New technology will also help researchers map platypus and water rat homes.
Using the latest genetic testing technology, scientists can test water samples for the presence of “eDNA”, which is DNA shed in urine, skin cells or faeces.
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While platypus are much loved, water rats are almost unknown, Mr Williams said. They are Australia’s native answer to the otter, as the top carnivorous predator in our river systems.
Both platypus and water rat populations have been under pressure in the Campaspe and Coliban rivers, Mr Williams said.
The APCwill hold an information session at Malmsbury Town Hall on October 28, at 2.30pm.
Report sightings at platypus.asn.au
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