Environmental DNA Testing

Environmental DNA (eDNA) is the genetic material present in environmental samples such as sediment and water. It is released from organisms in the environment through various sources, such as feces, mucus, gametes, shed skin and urine.

SRC Environmental Analytical Laboratories offers eDNA testing for:

• Zebra Mussels (Dreissena polymorpha)
• Quagga Mussels (Dreissena bugensis)
• Coming soon (Contact us for more information): 
  • Northern Pike (Esox lucius)
  • Spiny Waterflea (Bythotrephes longimanus)
  • Prussian Carp (Carassius gibelio)
  • Goldfish (Carassius auratus)
  • Common Carp (Cyprinus carpio)

eDNA testing is a valuable tool for fisheries, conservation organizations, federal and provincial parks, environmental scientists and specialists, environmental consultants and others to detect and track the distribution of target organisms within various ecosystems. 

eDNA testing is a quick and convenient way to detect organisms that could be overlooked by observation alone and allows for species monitoring without disturbing the environment. 

eDNA Laboratory Analysis

eDNA analysis starts with the collection of an environmental sample (e.g., a water sample). The sample is then sent to our lab where the DNA in the sample is extracted and purified. 

Our experts then take the purified DNA and use quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) methodologies to amplify it for a specific gene target to identify the target species. qPCR is a molecular biology lab technique used for detecting and quantifying DNA in samples to determine the presence and abundance of a particular DNA sequence in these samples.

Sequencing of the amplicon product can also provide confirmation of the species. Meanwhile, next-generation sequencing applications can provide more details into the relative abundance of an organism within the environment.

These techniques are highly effective for:

• Detecting the early presence of invasive species
• Monitoring native species thought to be extinct or at risk
• Identifying elusive species occurring in low densities that would be difficult to detect by traditional methods