Integrating habitat suitability modeling and species-specific qPCR assay development to enable early detection of the freshwater assassin snail Anentome helena (von dem Busch, 1847) in the United States

Freshwater snails released through the aquarium trade that have caused ecological effects in invaded habitats were first detected accidentally rather than through systematic monitoring. Anentome helena , a popular aquarium species not yet reported from the wild, is a likely future invader as it is easy to acquire, inexpensive, and hearty. Thus, we developed habitat suitability models using georeferenced occurrence data and hydroclimate variables to predict the likely geographical distribution of these snails in the freshwaters of the United States. A highly predictive model (area under the curve = 0.964) that included hydroclimate isothermality, the mean diurnal temperature range, and the mean temperature of the wettest quarter showed that southeastern Florida, near Miami, and localized areas of southeast Louisiana were the most suitable regions for invasion. A newly developed cytochrome c oxidase subunit I-based qPCR assay that demonstrated high sensitivity and specificity for A . helena detection was developed for efficient monitoring efforts in predicted suitable habitats. We recommend the deployment of environmental DNA detection kits that prioritize high-risk areas alongside user-friendly web-based reporting tools to maximize the contributions of researchers, resource managers, and citizen scientists to early detection. These efforts can guide resource managers in targeting early removal efforts and preventing the establishment of A . helena in US freshwater ecosystems.