Environmental DNA (eDNA) has the potential to transform efforts to catalog marine life. By searching for the genetic “fingerprints” organisms leave behind, scientists can get a quick snapshot of the residents of ocean ecosystems, accelerating urgently needed efforts to assess and track marine biodiversity. 

Researchers in MBARI’s Biological Oceanography Group contributed eDNA samples and expertise to Deutsche Bank’s Monitoring Ocean Biodiversity project, an eDNA initiative conducted in partnership with Germany’s SailGP team, the Ocean Risk and Resilience Action Alliance (ORRAA), and NatureMetrics that aims to inform future community action and ocean conservation efforts. 

Led by Senior Scientist Francisco Chavez, the Biological Oceanography Group collected water samples during scientific cruises in Monterey Bay aboard MBARI’s research vessel Rachel Carson. Genetic sequencing of these samples by NatureMetrics will help catalog the rich diversity of life in Monterey Bay.

As a leader in eDNA research and technology, MBARI is committed to supporting collaborations that leverage this powerful tool to advance ocean science and conservation. The new data from MBARI’s sampling in Monterey Bay will complement previous surveys conducted by scientists at the locations of SailGP races around the world. Together, these data are helping advance scientific understanding of ocean biodiversity and raising local awareness of marine conservation issues.

Read more from Deutsche Bank.

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