Environmental DNA (eDNA) can tell us amazing things. Collecting eDNA data sets lets scientists determine which animals are present in a specific area – on land and in the water – without actually having the animals present. Until now, however, getting eDNA has been a laborious task and has taken a lot of time.

As animals swim through the ocean – just as they do on land – they’re constantly releasing DNA as they shed skin or scales. When a scientist then picks a water sample and extracts DNA by running the water through a filter, it can shed light on what animals were in the water as far as a couple of weeks back.  

In exciting news, Fugro, a company specialising in manufacturing geo-data collection devices, now trialled the first automated eDNA sampler which, it hopes, could transform biodiversity studies. 

The DOT-NM Autosampler which is programmable and self-cleaning rapidly generates biodiversity assessments by collecting eDNA samples autonomously, reducing project time and costs. According to the company, it enables in situ collection and preservation of eDNA samples with no human interaction, enhancing safety and efficiency, especially in remote or hazardous environments.

Continuous collection of biodiversity data supports monitoring over extended periods. This provides a more representative sample for compliance with Biodiversity Marine Net Gain commitments. Comprehensive monitoring of marine biodiversity is crucial for understanding the impacts of energy infrastructure, such as offshore wind farms, on marine ecosystems.

The device streamlines the process by integrating eDNA collection into routine maintenance, with deployment options available off the back of a vessel, underneath buoys and moorings, or manually in rivers and lakes.

Completely autonomous and programmable, it eliminates the need for personnel to be present and allows for tailored data collection over extended periods of time. The results show that the Autosampler provides data as reliable as manual methods, supporting long-term environmental monitoring, crucial for sustainable development projects.

Andy Addleton, Environmental Service Line Manager at Fugro, said: “Fugro’s expertise in environmental monitoring and our commitment to innovation has enabled us to integrate this advanced technology into our existing platforms, such as uncrewed surface vessels, SEAWATCH® Wind Lidar Buoys, and seabed landers. This offers clients a safer, more efficient, and flexible solution for long-term biodiversity assessments.”

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