Core Viewpoint - The application of environmental DNA technology in monitoring the population and ecological status of the endangered bird species, the crested ibis, represents a significant advancement in wildlife conservation efforts in China [4][9]. Group 1: Environmental DNA Technology - Environmental DNA technology is likened to a "detective" that can identify the presence of crested ibises through trace DNA found in the air [6]. - This technology allows for monitoring without the need to capture animals, enhancing the ability to track the population and distribution of crested ibises [9]. - The research team has developed a targeted monitoring technique based on DNA molecules to detect crested ibis DNA from mixed samples [7]. Group 2: Data Collection and Analysis - The research team has collected genomic data from over three cities, covering different ages, sexes, and geographical populations of crested ibises, providing a "golden standard" for future environmental DNA comparisons [10]. - The samples collected are sent to the Shaanxi Environmental DNA Biological Monitoring Laboratory for analysis [7]. Group 3: Conservation Efforts - The initiative aligns with the theme of "Beautiful China, I Take the Lead" for World Environment Day 2025, promoting public engagement in environmental conservation [1]. - The establishment of a crested ibis gene bank is crucial for identifying and confirming the presence of the species through DNA comparison [6].

Core Viewpoint - The article highlights the use of environmental air DNA sampling technology to monitor the distribution and ecological status of the endangered crested ibis in the Weihe Wetland of Shaanxi, China [1] Group 1: Technology and Methodology - Monitoring personnel utilized an environmental air DNA sampler to capture air samples and extract crested ibis DNA, enabling precise monitoring of the species [1] - The research team developed a qPCR monitoring method specifically for crested ibis, which can accurately detect crested ibis DNA from mixed samples [1] Group 2: Implications and Future Applications - This technology provides significant support for the establishment of a genetic database for the crested ibis [1] - There is potential for this method to be applied to the monitoring of other rare species, indicating broader ecological monitoring applications [1]