Environmental DNA (eDNA)

Environmental DNA is a technique for identify DNA found in the environment (e.g., water, soil, air) from cellular material shed by organisms that has accumulated in the surrounding water, soil, air, etc. It allows for testing without having to sample the organism itself. eDNA is developing into a powerful tool for improving the monitoring and detection of invasive species, which may be present in low numbers and therefore difficult to find. There are a wide range of ongoing efforts by federal and non-federal groups working to improve and apply eDNA to invasive species monitoring and management. 

The NISC FY2020 to FY2022 Work Plans incorporated interagency work on eDNA, including the following outputs:

 

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