Researchers tested waters in rivers to help conserve endangered big-headed turtles in Thailand.

The team scooped up samples from 86 rivers and canals in northeast Thailand to find where the few remaining rare creatures could be living.

They will then use eDNA technology to trace the turtle's DNA and find clues about its habitat.

Chiang Mai University professor Dr Maslin Osatankul said finding the endangered species could greatly help in conserving their population.

He said: ‘We must find them before it's too late. We have high hopes for this new method.

‘It does not disturb the environment while looking for the turtles. We only test the water in the area and find whether a big-headed turtle's DNA is present.'

The scientist added that with the eDNA, they are only collecting data and analysing the places with the highest concentration of turtle DNA compared to old methods.

He said: ‘Research found that the big-headed turtle population is decreasing due to polluted environment, chemical, forest invasion, but the main factor comes from hunting to sell aboard.'

Big-headed turtles cost up to 5,000 baht (116 GBP) per kilogram to be used as ingredients in traditional medicine.

The professor added: ‘Big-headed turtles are an indicator species that can be used to monitor changes in the environment.

‘For example, they are found in habitats with clean water near the stream. Losing them means dirty water for us.

‘In northern Thailand, about 70 per cent of big-headed turtles in the country are found hunting and hiding in the puddles mostly at night.'

The researchers work with the nongovernment organisation Living River Association which helps with data collection, planning, and education of communities near the turtle's habitat.