Environmental DNA (eDNA) is defined as genetic material obtained directly from environmental samples such as soil, sediment, water, snow, air, etc. or leftovers from an organisms such as hair, feces or carcasses.

Sampling eDNA is an efficient, non-invasive and easy-to-standardize approach with great potential as a monitoring tool for wildlife in aquatic, marine or terrestrial ecosystems.  Unlike traditional monitoring of biodiversity, which relies on visual observation, eDNA overcomes some of the limitations such as spotting a rare or endangered species.

When it comes to microorganisms, eDNA has already revolutionized the understanding of microbial ecology.  eDNA constitutes a great opportunity to study the role and ecology of organisms and get insight into their metabolism, function and evolutionary relationship.

Many eDNA activities and competences are present at various departments of Faculty of Technical Sciences at Aarhus University