Consider the following statements regarding Environmental DNA: It is a...
Researchers from the Laboratory for the Conservation of Endangered Species (LaCONES) at the CSIR-Centre for Cellular and Molecular Biology (CCMB) in Hyderabad have developed new eDNA sequencing method to assess biodiversity.
- Environmental DNA (eDNA) is DNA shed by all organisms into their surroundings through natural processes during their lifetime or after death.
- Source: It originates from cellular material shed by organisms (via skin, excrement, etc.) into aquatic or terrestrial environments that can be sampled and monitored using new molecular methods.
Key points about new method
- The new non-invasive method can assess the total biodiversity of any ecosystem by sequencing the DNA fragments found in the environmental samples such as water, soil or air.
- This method can detect all kinds of organisms, including viruses, bacteria, archaea, and eukaryotes such as fungi, plants, insects, birds, fish and other animals.
- This method requires just a few litres of water sample without any direct capture or counting of species.
- The researchers filter out eDNA from environmental samples, read their sequences, and thus, identify the source of the eDNA.
Significance
- Such methodology is important for the early detection of invasive species as well as the detection of rare and cryptic species.
- eDNA can also reveal the presence of human remains
- The new method is cheaper, faster, and highly scalable to large freshwater and marine ecosystems which can help in monitoring and conserving the rich biodiversity of our country.
Hence both statements are correct.
Consider the following statements regarding Environmental DNA: It is a...
Environmental DNA (eDNA) is a rapidly emerging field in environmental science that has revolutionized the way we study and understand ecosystems. It refers to the DNA shed by organisms into their surroundings through natural processes. This shed DNA can be found in various environmental samples such as water, soil, and air, and it provides valuable information about the organisms present in an ecosystem without the need for direct observation or capture.
Statement 1: It is a DNA shed by all organisms into their surroundings through natural processes.
This statement is correct. Environmental DNA is shed by all organisms as they go about their daily activities. For example, animals shed DNA in the form of skin cells, hair, feces, and urine, while plants release DNA through pollen and leaves. This shed DNA can persist in the environment for varying lengths of time, depending on factors such as environmental conditions and the type of sample. By analyzing eDNA, scientists can identify the presence of different species and gain insights into their abundance, distribution, and genetic diversity.
Statement 2: It helps in understanding invasive species in the environment.
This statement is also correct. One of the key applications of eDNA is in the detection and monitoring of invasive species. Invasive species are non-native organisms that can have detrimental effects on native ecosystems, biodiversity, and human activities. Traditional methods for detecting invasive species often involve time-consuming and costly field surveys. However, by analyzing eDNA, scientists can quickly and accurately determine the presence or absence of invasive species in an area. This information can help in the early detection and management of invasions, allowing for timely intervention and control measures.
Conclusion: Therefore, both statements are correct. Environmental DNA is shed by all organisms into their surroundings, and it is a valuable tool for understanding invasive species and their impacts on ecosystems. The use of eDNA has the potential to greatly enhance our ability to study and conserve the environment, providing valuable insights into the biodiversity and functioning of ecosystems.
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