Environmental DNA (eDNA) is the genetic material shed by organisms into their environment. By collecting and analyzing this genetic material that is left behind, species can be identified within an environment without scientists ever having to see individual animals. eDNA has many applications and is widely used at NOAA for applications such as understanding the species composition in an environment; providing a baseline of an ocean region's biodiversity; tracking invasive species, endangered species, migratory species, cryptic species, harmful algal blooms, pathogens, parasites, and certain targeted species; and providing a better understanding of oceanic food webs.
Mission personnel on the 2021 Technology Demonstration tested the use of eDNA analysis as a potential new tool that could one day be incorporated into NOAA Ocean Exploration missions to more comprehensively explore the deep ocean.
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Video courtesy of NOAA Ocean Exploration, 2021 Technology Demonstration.
Testing the Use of Environmental DNA to Explore the Deep Ocean