eDNA

Environmental DNA (eDNA) is DNA shed into the environment by live or formerly live organisms (plants, animals, invertebrates and insects). It has become widely used for biodiversity studies, tracking of fecal contamination, detection of disease-causing microbes and detection of threatened and/or invasive species that may be present in small numbers and difficult to detect by traditional sampling means. Environmental DNA can originate from skin cells sloughed off, mucous, gametes released into the environment, feces and carcasses. Early detection of invasive species, new pathogens or determination of the presence of a threatened or endangered species through eDNA analysis has the potential to streamline discovery and management response.