An introductory knowledge base to your first eDNA experiment
This site is designed as a guide for conducting experiments with environmental DNA (eDNA). We have compiled practical tips, expert interviews, and foundational papers to support all aspects of an eDNA investigation.
For students and practitioners new to eDNA work, we hope this resource will help you design the best possible experiment while avoiding common pitfalls.
How to use this site
This site divides the eDNA experiment into seven components: experimental design, sampling, preservation, DNA extraction, sequencing, PCR, and bioinformatics. These topic pages provide a helpful guide, example protocols, FAQs, videos, and other eDNA learning resources. You can also use our chatbot to search and explore trusted content on this site, including expert interview videos and peer-reviewed papers.
eDNA Topics
Introduction to eDNA: What is eDNA and what can studying eDNA reveal?
Environmental DNA, or eDNA, is DNA collected from the environment. This DNA is released by organisms when they shed or excrete cells. After collection and DNA isolation, eDNA can be examined using DNA sequencing techniques. The resulting DNA sequences can help identify the species present in the environment. Analyzing eDNA is a fast, community-friendly, and affordable way to identify and measure the abundance of species.
eDNA allows scientists to examine species quickly and without prior knowledge of which species are present. This method can be faster, cheaper, and more effective than other techniques for identifying species in an environment. In many cases, collecting eDNA samples does not harm the species or the environment, unlike some other sampling techniques. Additionally, eDNA can simultaneously survey a variety of species. Using DNA sequences to identify species is often easier than taxonomic identification—especially for non-experts. Thus, for complex ecosystems, eDNA can be particularly effective.
eDNA in Practice
eDNA and its uses
This site contains nearly 100 interview clips of scientists who are using eDNA to advance research, here is a selection of expert contributors using eDNA in their research.
Planning is Everything!
Susanna Theroux, Ph.D.
Know why are you using eDNA
Hayley DeHart
Know your experimental goals
Sara Goodwin, Ph.D.
Think of it as pilot study
Ellen Pikitch, Ph.D.
Take it slow and plan
Elizabeth Suter, Ph.D.
Be aware of contamination...and have fun!
Michael Tessler, Ph.D.
Read ahead of time
Javier Izquierdo, Ph.D.
eDNA GTP-Chatbot
Our AI-powered chatbot integrates all articles on this site, peer-reviewed papers, and our entire collection of expert interview videos. Ask a question about eDNA to receive a synthesized answer, complete with references to the original sources. Please verify your understanding with a trusted source, as no AI bot can guarantee 100% accuracy.
