Passive eDNA Sediment Collection Apparatus
Technology Summary
The Passive eDNA and Sediment Collection Apparatus (PESCA) revolutionizes the way we monitor marine and freshwater biodiversity. It enables rapid and cost-effective detection of invasive species, tracking of animals’ range shifts, and assessment of ecosystem health. Traditionally, eDNA studies required manual collection and filtration of large volumes of water, leading to time-consuming processes and potential sample contamination. PESCA is designed to align with ocean and river currents, maximizing eDNA retention while featuring modular components for sediment collection and accommodating various filter types and sizes while minimizing contamination risks.
Background
The collection of environmental DNA aims to develop a thorough view of all the species in a biome without the need for direct observation. Current methods for collecting these samples in marine environments entail active or passive sampling, oftentimes with a costly collection apparatus prone to issues such as sediment buildup and contamination.
Description & How It Works
PESCA addresses these limitations through an innovative, current-aligned design that maximizes eDNA collection and retention without heavy manual filtration. Equipped with modular components, the apparatus can collect sediment simultaneously and adapt to various filter media and sizes, offering a lightweight and scalable sampling solution.
Applications
- eDNA Monitoring Kits: Field deployable toolsets for biodiversity surveys and tracking.
- Community Science Kits: Accessible, low-cost sampling tools for public engagement and monitoring.
- Mariculture: Monitoring water quality, pathogen presence, and biological impact around farm sites.
- Research Institutions: Standardized sampling hardware for oceanographic and ecological studies.