eDNA Metabarcoding

Environmental DNA (eDNA) metabarcoding is a novel method of assessing biodiversity wherein samples are taken from the environment via water, sediment or air from which DNA is extracted, and then amplified using general or universal primers in polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and sequenced using next-generation sequencing to generate thousands to millions of reads. From this data, species presence can be determined, and overall biodiversity assessed. It is an interdisciplinary method that brings together traditional field-based ecology with in-depth molecular methods and advanced computational tools. As an emerging monitoring method, there are many pitfalls and roadblocks to be considered and avoided, but the method may still have the ability to revolutionize modern biodiversity surveys for the molecular era.

Applications for eDNA Metabarcoding

Fishing for Mammals: Using Environmental DNA from Rivers to Monitor Mammals on Land

Advice on the Use of Targeted Environmental DNA (eDNA) Analysis for the Management of Aquatic and Invasive Species and Species at Risk (Fisheries and Oceans Canada)