Project

Environmental DNA Validation

Validating the use of eDNA in marine fisheries assessments

Environmental DNA (eDNA) is an exciting and promising new tool for “observing” and quantifying animal populations in a variety of environments. To advance the reliable use of eDNA in the ocean, we are conducting a validation study using acoustic technologies for quantifying fish. We have extensive experience applying acoustics to Atlantic herring research and have greater confidence in being able to compare eDNA to a “known” herring quantity. Our work will provide insights into the factors that may influence fish eDNA in marine settings.

Project Goals:

  • Characterize spatial and temporal variability in herring abundance and biomass.
  • Explore relationships between acoustic and eDNA estimates of herring abundance and biomass.
  • Identify how eDNA fragment length influences assessments.
  • Understand how physical variables influence the relationship between acoustic and eDNA measures of herring abundance and biomass.
Environmental DNA (eDNA) is an exciting and promising new tool for “observing” and quantifying animal populations in a variety of environments.
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Thomsen et al. (2016)

Environmental DNA from Seawater Samples Correlate with Trawl Catches of Subarctic, Deepwater Fishes

Project Team

Project Sponsor

NOAA logo

This research is made possible through the generous support of the NOAA omics program.

Project Partners

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