Wildlife surveys are essential for understanding biodiversity and protecting our ecosystems. However, traditional methods can be time-consuming, expensive, and often miss hard-to-find species. That’s where environmental DNA, or eDNA, is changing the game.
In this post, we’ll explain what eDNA is, how it works, and explore seven key benefits that are transforming the way we monitor wildlife.
Table of Contents
What is Environmental DNA?
DNA is the building block of life, and different species have different DNA. It contains the unique code that determines how an organism looks, functions, and behaves. Environmental DNA (eDNA) refers to tiny traces of genetic material left behind by living organisms in their environment.
Even tiny or rare species leave behind enough eDNA to be detected. This DNA can come from skin cells, hair, mucus, blood, saliva, faeces, or even urine. In water and soil, these genetic fingerprints can reveal which species are or were recently present, even without direct observation.
How Does eDNA Testing Work?
Collecting and analysing eDNA is straightforward and non-invasive in 4 steps:
#1 Sample Collection – Researchers collect water or soil samples using sterile containers.
#2 Filtration – The sample is filtered to catch microscopic particles containing DNA.
#3 DNA Extraction – Scientists use extraction kits to isolate DNA from the filter.
#4 Sequencing and Identification – In the lab, the DNA is amplified using Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) and then analysed using a process called metabarcoding. Each DNA sequence is compared to a database to identify the species.
Once analysed, the results can tell us which species are present, how abundant they may be, and whether any rare or invasive organisms are nearby.
8 Benefits of eDNA Testing
1) Detection of Rare Species: eDNA is highly sensitive and capable of detecting species at very low population densities, even before they are seen in the wild. This makes it ideal for spotting rare or endangered species that are less likely to be identified through traditional measures.
2) Catching Invasive Species: Invasive Non-Native Species (INNS) have contributed to 57% of extinctions globally. They also cost economies over $400 billion per year. eDNA methods can catch the presence of INNS early and confirm their complete eradication to prevent recolonisation.
3) Comprehensive Coverage: A single eDNA sample can identify a broad range of species (fish, invertebrates, mammals, even bacteria). This provides a fuller picture of the ecosystem. The technique can also be easily scaled to monitor large or remote areas.
4) Cost-Effective Monitoring: Traditional survey methods, such as trapping and visual identification, can be resource-intensive. By contrast, eDNA surveys cover more ground in less time, reducing labour and equipment costs. One U.S. study found that eDNA detection for snapping turtles was nearly 20% cheaper than trapping.
5) Reduced Safety Risks: eDNA methods minimise direct contact with wildlife and reduce the need for night surveys or work in hazardous locations. This lowers the risk of injury, disease transmission, and accidents, especially in unfamiliar or remote terrains.
6) Non-Invasive and Low Impact: Because eDNA is collected from the environment, it causes no stress or harm to wildlife. This is especially important when surveying protected or sensitive species. There’s also a reduced risk of accidentally spreading non-native species between sites.
7) Effective in Hard-to-Reach Areas: eDNA can be collected from places where traditional surveys are difficult. This could include large lakes, remote wetlands, or densely vegetated areas. It’s also ideal for detecting elusive species (such as nocturnal animals) that live in these regions.
8) Supporting Biodiversity Reporting : With increasing focus on environmental regulations and sustainability, eDNA provides a practical way for businesses to assess their biodiversity impact. It helps companies make informed conservation decisions using solid, science-backed data.
Southern Scientific’s eDNA Testing
At Southern Scientific, we provide a comprehensive eDNA testing service. We can help with biodiversity research, environmental impact assessments, and invasive species detection.
Our process begins with advising on the most effective sampling strategies. We accept a variety of sample types, ranging from water to soil.
Once the samples reach our lab, our experts use advanced techniques, such as PCR and Next-Generation Sequencing (NGS), to analyse the DNA. This allows us to:
Detect the recent presence of target species
Assess abundance and distribution
Generate detailed biodiversity reports
Whether you’re monitoring endangered wildlife, checking for invasive species, or meeting sustainability targets, our tailored eDNA solutions provide accurate, timely, and actionable data.
