eDNA for Quantitative Macroorganism Marine Animal Monitoring of Ocean Waves
eDNA for Quantitative Macroorganism Marine Animal Monitoring of Ocean Waves
Obtaining a census of marine life is important to understanding changes in marine ecosystems that result from stressors such as overfishing, ocean acidification, hypoxia, pollution and biological invasions. Traditional monitoring depends on individuals who count marine populations. It is invasive, expensive time-consuming and error-prone. This project proposes to measure marine populations more efficiently by sequencing environmental DNA (eDNA) in water samples – that is, evaluating tissue cells and waste shed by marine life to measure the distribution, diversity and abundance of the organisms present. It would fulfill an urgent need for accurate and efficient marine animal monitoring tools. It would be especially useful for identifying the presence of endangered animals, migrating animals, marine mammals or invasive species.
News & Press Releases
DNA Left by Ocean Animals Provides Rare Glimpse of Marine Ecosystems »
As ocean animals swim past, they leave behind DNA. Now, scientists have shown these genetic clues can be used as forensic markers to accurately and easily survey marine life in complex deep-water environments.
By Rob Jordan,
New Tool Offers Near Real-Time Info About Marine Species »
Scientists with Stanford's Center for Ocean Solutions propose using genetic techniques as a low-cost, quick way to collect near real-time knowledge of environmental conditions.
By Julia Turan, intern,
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Media Coverage
Ocean 'Dandruff' a New Tool for Marine Biologists »
Describes innovative eDNA project, funded in part by a Woods EVP grant, that could help track rare & endangered marine species.
By Emily Benson,
How Many Fish in the Sea? Genetic Testing Could Answer That »
Woods postdoctoral scholar Jesse Port explains how he uses DNA testing to reveal which organisms have been in the Monterey Bay.
By Lauren Sommer,