Non-invasive genetic monitoring of Dryococelus australis (Montrouzier, 1885)

The funding requested here will allow me to deliver a proven, scalable, and ethically sound method for long-term genetic monitoring of D. australis, one of the world’s rarest insects and a unique evolutionary lineage. This non-invasive approach addresses the difficulty and risk of direct sampling, enabling managers to track genetic variation, prevent inbreeding, and guide the planned reintroduction to LHI while improving captive breeding management. Beyond D. australis, it provides a transferable model for non-invasive genetic monitoring of other threatened invertebrates, advancing conservation genetics for overlooked but ecologically vital taxa.