Environmental DNA from Marine Waters and Substrates: Protocols for Sampling and eDNA Extraction
Dominique A Cowart1, Katherine R Murphy2, C-H Christina Cheng3
1Company for Open Ocean Observations and Logging (COOOL), Saint Leu, La Réunion, France.
Methods in Molecular Biology (Clifton, N.J.)
|June 21, 2022
Summary
Environmental DNA (eDNA) analysis offers a powerful method for studying aquatic life, including rare species. This guide details crucial early steps in eDNA workflows for marine research, focusing on sample collection and preservation to ensure reliable biodiversity assessments.
Area of Science:
- Marine Biology
- Environmental Science
- Molecular Ecology
Background:
- Environmental DNA (eDNA) is increasingly vital for aquatic biodiversity monitoring and conservation.
- eDNA analysis enables detection and characterization of metazoan communities across diverse marine habitats.
- The adoption of eDNA methods is rapidly expanding for ecological research and conservation initiatives.
Purpose of the Study:
- To provide detailed protocols for the initial stages of marine eDNA analysis.
- To guide researchers in sampling, preservation, extraction, and quantification of eDNA from marine environments.
- To offer best practices for avoiding common pitfalls like degradation and contamination in eDNA studies.
Main Methods:
- Detailed protocols for eDNA sampling from marine water, substrates, and sediments.
- Guidance on sample processing, preservation, and eDNA extraction techniques.
- Discussion on avoiding eDNA degradation and contamination during sample handling.
Main Results:
- Established protocols for effective eDNA collection and preservation in marine settings.
- Identified critical factors influencing eDNA sample integrity and study validity.
- Provided foundational steps for subsequent eDNA sequencing and data analysis.
Conclusions:
- Standardized early-stage protocols are essential for robust marine eDNA studies.
- Careful attention to sampling and preservation maximizes the reliability of eDNA data.
- This chapter serves as a practical guide for implementing marine eDNA workflows.
