Applying DNA technology to monitor biodiversity and environmental change
Stage in GSE Lifecyle
Primary stage : Horizon Scan
Related stage(s) : Create | Evaluate | Build Capability
Our ability to protect and manage ecosystems is limited by the constraints of our current biological monitoring methods.
Technologies that use molecular genetic information (e.g. eDNA and RNA) such as high throughput sequencing (HTS) create new opportunities that could transform the way we carry out ecological assessments and manage our ecosystems. They deliver scalable, efficient, non-invasive methods and produce high resolution consistent data.
For over a decade Environment Agency researchers have been assessing whether molecular methods could open the door to new opportunities and deliver innovative tools. Our research and development projects have been amongst the first large-scale studies to establish the suitability of HTS, translating the outputs into usable metrics for ecological assessment.
Current work focusses on:
- validating a suite of eDNA assays to improve the surveillance of protected and invasive non-native species
- building organisational capability and capacity in our national laboratory
- working on knowledge transfer to make our communications more engaging
- developing a strategic vision for eDNA, including understanding and overcoming barriers to implementation
Computer model of a genome
Team
Chief Scientists Group
Department(s)
Environment Agency
Department for the Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (DEFRA)
Contact Details
Dr Kerry Walsh