Back to: MICROBIOLOGY 400 LEVEL
Welcome to class!
Hi there, superstar learner! I’m so glad you’re here, ready to discover another mind-blowing topic in microbiology. Today, we’re talking about something modern, powerful, and super useful—Environmental DNA (eDNA) Monitoring. It sounds high-tech (and it is), but don’t worry—we’ll break it down in a simple, relatable way that makes perfect sense.
Environmental Dna (Edna) Monitoring
Every living thing—whether it’s a fish in a river, a microbe in the soil, or even you—leaves behind tiny traces of DNA in the environment. These bits of DNA can come from skin cells, faeces, mucus, saliva, or even decaying bodies. Scientists call this environmental DNA or eDNA.
What is eDNA Monitoring?
eDNA monitoring is the process of collecting samples (usually water or soil) from the environment and analysing them to detect what organisms have been there. The amazing part? We don’t have to catch or even see the organisms—we just test the environment for their DNA!
How It Works
A water or soil sample is collected from a river, pond, forest, or even the air.
The sample is taken to the lab.
Scientists extract the DNA from the sample.
Using special tools, they compare the DNA found with known DNA of plants, animals, or microbes.
If there’s a match, it tells us that organism is (or was recently) present in that area.
Why Is eDNA Monitoring Important?
It helps detect rare or endangered species
It’s useful for tracking invasive species (those that don’t belong in an area)
It helps monitor biodiversity without harming animals or disturbing habitats
It’s useful for early detection of disease-causing microbes in water bodies
Nigerian example: In parts of Cross River National Park, researchers use eDNA monitoring to track rare fish and amphibians without needing to trap them. This protects both the environment and the species being studied.
Advantages of eDNA Monitoring
Non-invasive (no harm to animals or habitats)
Fast and accurate
Cost-effective compared to traditional sampling
Ideal for remote or hard-to-access areas
Summary
- eDNA refers to DNA left behind by organisms in their environment.
- eDNA monitoring helps detect species without needing to capture them.
- It supports conservation, biodiversity checks, and pollution monitoring.
Evaluation
- What is environmental DNA (eDNA)?
- How is eDNA collected and used?
- Give one reason why eDNA monitoring is helpful in Nigeria.
You just learned how invisible traces in the environment can tell powerful stories. Keep your eyes on the future—your brilliance is what the world needs. Afrilearn is always with you on this journey. See you in the next class!