What is eDNA, and where can eDNA from fish be found?
eDNA (environmental DNA) refers to the genetic material that is present in the environment, specifically in the form of shed cells, tissues, or organic matter from organisms. It is a non-invasive method used to detect and identify the presence of different organisms in a specific environment.
eDNA from fish can be found in various water sources such as rivers, lakes, streams, or oceans. It is usually present in the form of fish scales, mucus, excreta, or cells that are released into the water as fish move through it. These DNA fragments can persist in the water for variable periods, allowing scientists to collect water samples to detect and identify the fish species present in a particular area.
eDNA stands for environmental DNA, which refers to the genetic material (DNA) shed by organisms into their surrounding environment. It can be found in various forms, such as skin cells, scales, mucus, urine, feces, or even fragments of decomposed bodies.
In the case of fish, eDNA can be found in aquatic environments where fish are present, such as rivers, lakes, oceans, or other bodies of water. It can be detected in water samples, sediment, or other substrates in the aquatic environment.
The eDNA technique has become a non-invasive and efficient tool for monitoring fish populations and biodiversity. By analyzing water samples for the presence of fish eDNA, researchers can determine the presence or absence of specific fish species in a given area.