What is Environmental DNA?

Environmental DNA (eDNA) refers to genetic material collected directly from environmental samples—such as soil, water, sediment, or air—without the need to isolate or capture the target organism.

These genetic traces are naturally shed into the environment through skin, mucus, waste, gametes, or decomposition. eDNA analysis offers a rapid, non-invasive, and cost-effective way to measure biodiversity, detect invasive pests, and track rare species. It is a fast-moving, innovative field that is increasingly being adopted by government agencies and industry to transform environmental management.