Environmental DNA (eDNA) is genetic material that organisms shed as they move through, interact with, and inhabit their environment. By collecting and analysing this DNA from sources like waterways, we can gain valuable insights into species distribution across time and space, monitor biosecurity threats more effectively, and track changes in ecosystem health with greater sensitivity.
Unlike traditional survey methods, eDNA monitoring doesn’t require capturing or visually identifying every organism. This makes it faster, safer, and more cost-effective—allowing for broader and deeper environmental assessments.
A small sample—just a cup or two of water—can reveal the presence of thousands of species, including fish, macroinvertebrates, birds, mammals, reptiles, amphibians, plants, fungi, protists, bacteria, and more.