Unlocking the potential of eDNA

Environmental DNA (eDNA) detects species using the tiny genetic traces left behind in water or soil. This approach offers major advantages over traditional ecological monitoring, which is often costly and requires seeing or capturing species and spending long hours in the field.

But eDNA methods are still evolving. Many techniques have been designed specifically for cooler climates, and sample collection requires specialised training.

We are dedicated to improving the way we use eDNA to reach the full potential of this technique.

From sampling through to analysis

We are continuously developing the methods we use to collect eDNA samples in the field and analyse them in our laboratory. Our team specialises in improving how samples are collected and preserved to make eDNA techniques feasible in hot and remote environments.

Improving sample collection

Our team has made eDNA sampling easier so communities and citizen scientists can collect water samples with minimal training.

Existing sampling methods require large volumes of water to be collected, filtered, and refrigerated before being analysed. Our method uses small tubes – or larger jars for sampling rivers and lakes – containing a preservative. These samples are less vulnerable to contamination and do not need to be refrigerated, making this method suitable to use in the tropics.

We have created user-friendly eDNA sampling kits using our simplified method and distributed these to community partners and Indigenous Ranger groups. These kits enable easy sample collection in remote locations across northern Australia, creating opportunities for citizen science programs and community-led monitoring to use eDNA.

Developing assays for northern Australia

We have developed a range of specific tests (assays) for species of management concern in northern Australia, allowing us to detect them using eDNA for conservation and biosecurity monitoring.

We have developed assays for the following invasive species in the region:

• Cane toads.

• Cabomba (fanwort).

• Mozambique tilapia.

• Spotted tilapia.

• Electric ants and tropical fire ants.

• Ornamental fish species (Siamese fighting fish, southern platyfish, green swordtail, sailfin molly, and walking catfish).

We have also developed assays for these endangered species:

• Sawfish, including largetooth sawfish, dwarf sawfish, longcomb sawfish, and knifetooth sawfish.

• Dugong.

• Rainforest frogs, including Australian lacelid frog, armoured mistfrog, and torrent frog.

• Freshwater turtles, including Daintree snapping turtle, Irwin’s turtle, white-throated snapping turtle, and the Gulf snapping turtle.

• Marine turtles, including hawksbill turtle.

Innovative research

Our team is leading research projects that push the boundaries of how eDNA techniques can solve environmental challenges. Examples include detecting terrestrial invasive species by sampling nearby waterways (https://www.tropwater.com/projects/edna-technology-revolutionises-invasive-species-biosecurity) and investigating dugong diets using eDNA in dugong poo (https://www.tropwater.com/projects/assessing-dugong-poo-using-edna).

Every new project refines the methods we use and advances our knowledge of what can be achieved with eDNA.

Project details

These projects are led by Dr Cecilia Villacorta-Rath and Dr Damien Burrows with funding from the National Environmental Science Program Northern Australia Environmental Resources Hub, Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water, Department of Primary Industries, Queensland, Great Barrier Reef Foundation, and Department of the Environment, Tourism, Science and Innovation, Queensland.