Synopsis

The USGS is offering a funding opportunity to a CESU partner for research collecting and analyzing environmental DNA (eDNA) samples to evaluate the efficacy of detecting small populations of Coconut Rhinoceros Beetle (CRB; Oryctes rhinoceros) in the Hawaiian Islands. The research will involve sampling environmental DNA from the trunks of palm trees, providing a rigorous test of an emerging technology. The CESU partner is expected to co-develop a sampling design and site selection in collaboration with USGS scientists, with the aim of evaluating the probability of detection via eDNA in locations where CRB populations are small, such as the limit of the known range. This study may also assess how detection probability is affected by distance from a pheromone lure, by sampling eDNA from trunks of palm trees at a variety of distances from a lure-based trap. The CESU partner is expected to conduct field sampling and subsequently run laboratory assays, including technical replicates, to test for presence of the focal species" DNA. This work is being developed to inform the design of monitoring programs, including Department of War (DoW) biosecurity programs and port monitoring programs. The CESU partner will collaborate with USGS scientists as the data are analyzed and interpreted. The CESU partner may collaborate on work related to biosecurity and biosurveillance, as determined by available funding and interest.
Response Date	Jul 05, 2026 12:00:00 AM EDT
Posting Date	Jun 05, 2026 12:00:00 AM EDT
Archive Date
Award Ceiling	292,531
Award Floor	1
Cost Sharing	No

Eligibility

Eligible Applicants	Others (see text field entitled "Additional Information on Eligibility" for clarification)
Additional Info on Eligibility:	This financial assistance opportunity is being issued under a Cooperative Ecosystem Studies Units (CESU) Program. CESU"s are partnerships that provide research, technical assistance, and education. Eligible recipients must be a participating partner of the North Atlantic Coast Cooperative Ecosystem Studies Unit.

Additional Information

Agency Name	Geological Survey
Link to Additional Information:	N/a
Grantor Contact Information:	If you have difficulty accessing the full announcement electronically, please contact: GrantSolutions Help Desk Phone: 916-278-9331

CFDA Program(s)

• 15.808: U.S. Geological Survey Research and Data Collection