eDNA Services

Our eDNA services provide a seamless, end-to-end solution for your project. We deliver high-quality results and robust data analysis, to ensure that your project requirements are met efficiently and effectively. Our services are designed to provide a streamlined experience, allowing you to focus on your conservation goals while we manage the technical aspects of eDNA analysis.

For aquatic eDNA sampling order our standard sterile kits, if you need a bespoke sampling kit we can create them for the project. We have experience collecting a range of environmental samples including invertebrates, air and soil. Once we receive your field samples at our laboratory, we will take care of the entire workflow, from eDNA recovery, DNA extraction, quantitative PCR (qPCR), digital droplet PCR (ddPCR), next-generation sequencing (NGS), Sanger sequencing, and microsatellite analysis.

Primers

To meet your goals we identify suitable primers for your project to deliver the best data possible. We have extensive experience in primer design services with full laboratory validation where needed. Costs vary depending on project complexity and availability of genetic reference material.

We routinely use Metabarcoding primers for fish, invertebrates, terrestrial vertebrates, plants and microbes. Primer selection for each project is bespoke and varies depending on the available taxonomic databases for your region of interest. We will work with you to recommend the most appropriate methods to meet your aims.

Blocking primers can be used to minimise the detection of non-target species. However they can suppress amplification, we can advise the best strategy according to the specific aims of your project.

qPCR and ddPCR

A targeted single-species approach provides the most sensitive application of eDNA analysis. This offers the best approach for detecting rare and endangered species. Turn around times vary depending on assay validation stage, staff availability and project size. But by scheduling your lab time in advance we can provide results in 1-2 weeks.

Our sequencing services include a comprehensive multi-species approach, enabling broad biodiversity assessments from your eDNA samples. We also offer species specific Sanger sequencing for identification and confirmation. Barcode sequencing helps you to build reference libraries for your region. Turnaround times depend on the complexity of your project, library preparation and sequencing depth, as well as staff availability. By scheduling your lab time in advance, you can expect results in weeks, with regular progress updates throughout.

Sequencing

Microsatellite analysis

Our microsatellite analysis services offer a robust approach for investigating genetic diversity, population structure, and relatedness within species. Turnaround times vary depending on the complexity of your project and sample throughput, as well as staff availability.

Costs will be tailored depending on the scale of your project and our staff allocation.

But to give you an idea, per sample costs for a single-species community science project start at £100 per sample. This includes a sterile sampling kit and analysis. Costs increase for multi-species and research level analyses however, when you are working at scale (> 50 samples), we adapt the costs accordingly. Drop us a line to learn more.

Costs

1. Single species assay design and sample analysis

Client's aim

To monitor the presence of European eel (Anguilla anguilla) in watercourses in the South West of England using non-invasive eDNA techniques.

Our input

Single-species assay design and validation for Anguilla anguilla, with a limit of detection of 12 copies per reaction. Project management, survey design, sample collection, data synthesis and report preparation.

The output

Actionable evidence provided for 'Adapting the levels' landscape recovery project.

Example eDNA services:

Client's aim

To document vertebrate species present, and genetic diversity of samples where reference sequences do not exist.

Our input

Review of reference libraries and selection of appropriate universal primers, targeting gene regions where most reference sequences exist. DNA extraction, amplification and NGS of samples and bioinformatic analysis.

The output

Species or genus level species assignment where sufficient reference sequences exist, and a catalogue of unknown sequences with phylogenetic analysis to build a DNA library for the region.

2. Next generation sequencing of samples from a data-deficient region

3. Microsatellite analysis for a beaver population study

Client's aim

To assess the genetic diversity and relatedness of reintroduced beaver populations using non-invasive techniques.

Our input

Selection and validation of species-specific microsatellite markers. DNA extraction from swab samples collected by The eDNA Consultancy, followed by PCR amplification and genotyping using selected microsatellite markers.

The output

A comprehensive dataset including measures of genetic diversity, allele frequencies and individual genotypes.

Links to our other services