Environmental Dna
Environmental Dna - Related Videos
08:04
Use of a Filter Cartridge for Filtration of Water Samples and Extraction of Environmental DNA
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Cited by 133 •
2016
We describe a protocol for filtration of water samples with a filter cartridge and extraction of environmental DNA (eDNA) without having to cut open the housing to remove the filter. This protocol is developed for metabarcoding eDNA from fishes, but is also applicable to eDNA from other organisms.
13:46
Separation of Single-stranded DNA, Double-stranded DNA and RNA from an Environmental Viral Community Using Hydroxyapatite Chromatography
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Cited by 5 •
2011
We describe an efficient method to separate single-stranded DNA, double-stranded DNA and RNA molecules from environmental viral communities. Nucleic acids are fractionated using hydroxyapatite chromatography with increasing concentrations of phosphate-containing buffers. This method permits the isolation of all viral nucleic acid types from environmental samples.
08:54
Development and Testing of Species-specific Quantitative PCR Assays for Environmental DNA Applications
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Cited by 66 •
2020
Environmental DNA assays require rigorous design, testing, optimization and validation before the collection of field data can begin. Here, we present a protocol to take users through each step of designing a species-specific, probe-based qPCR assay for the detection and quantification of a target species DNA from environmental samples.
03:46
Stool Microbial DNA Isolation: Studying the Effect of Environmental Enrichment on Microbiome Diversity in Murine Tumor Model
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2023
This video describes DNA isolation protocol from stool samples of colon tumor-bearing mice. The extracted DNA is amplified using PCR, and the product is further cleaned using a magnetic beads-based approach. This method can be used to determine the effect of environmental enrichment on colon microbiota and animal mortality.
09:57
Quantifying Environmental Microorganisms and Viruses Using qPCR
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2023
Source: Laboratories of Dr. Ian Pepper and Dr. Charles Gerba - The University of Arizona Demonstrating Author: Bradley Schmitz Quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR), also known as real-time PCR, is a widely-used molecular technique for enumerating microorganisms in the environment. Prior to this approach, quantifying microorganisms was limited largely to classical culture-based techniques. However, the culturing of microbes from environmental samples can be particularly challenging, and...
FAQs
Detection depends partly on how long genetic material remains intact after release. Environmental conditions can accelerate or slow DNA degradation, while transport through water, soil, or sediment can move material away from its original source. Consequently, a positive result reflects both biological presence and the environmental history of the sampled material.
Polymerase chain reaction, or PCR, can target a species-specific genetic marker, making it useful when researchers want to test for a particular organism. DNA sequencing analyzes genetic material through sequencing methods and can support broader biological detection. The selected approach therefore depends on whether the investigation focuses on a defined species or wider biological assessment.
Genetic material may remain detectable after cells, tissues, or organisms are no longer visible. It can also move through an ecosystem before sampling occurs. These properties mean detection should be interpreted in relation to environmental conditions and sample location, rather than treated as direct proof that an organism is currently present at that exact site.
The approach can provide biological evidence while reducing disturbance to organisms and habitats, making it a useful complement to conventional field sampling. Rather than replacing established surveys in every situation, it adds information from environmental samples and can support comparisons across biodiversity surveys, species monitoring, and broader ecosystem assessments.
A typical workflow begins by collecting environmental material from water, soil, or sediment. Researchers then filter or otherwise concentrate the genetic material before analyzing it with a species-specific marker using PCR or with DNA sequencing. The resulting detection is interpreted alongside degradation and transport conditions that may affect what remains in the sample.
Researchers apply eDNA to biodiversity surveys, invasive-species monitoring, endangered-species detection, and ecosystem assessment. Its value is especially clear when sampling needs to limit disturbance to organisms or habitats. Results can complement conventional observations by indicating biological material associated with an environment, while interpretation still accounts for persistence and environmental movement.
Environmental DNA can contribute evidence about which biological material is associated with a sampled environment and help characterize biodiversity or detect organisms of management interest. In ecosystem assessment, these data support evaluation of biological conditions across water, soil, or sediment samples. They are most informative when considered with DNA degradation, transport, and other sampling context.