Galicia to use environmental DNA to study Atlantic Islands National Park

The Xunta de Galicia is launching a project to study the hidden biodiversity of the Atlantic Islands Maritime-Terrestrial National Park using environmental DNA (eDNA) techniques. Developed by the Department of Biology at the Autonomous University of Madrid, the initiative aims to improve the monitoring of biodiversity and the detection of invasive species.

This scientific method allows researchers to identify organisms by analyzing genetic material left in the water, air, and other environmental elements, eliminating the need to locate organisms directly. This approach is particularly effective for detecting species that are difficult to observe through conventional methods due to their small size, low abundance, specific behaviors, or elusive distributions.

Sampling will take place throughout the year to account for seasonal changes and will cover exposed coasts, sheltered areas, Lago dos Nenos, and various terrestrial habitats. Methods will be adapted to each environment, including filtering water samples, studying DNA accumulated in natural filter feeders like marine sponges, and using filtration systems to collect airborne DNA in terrestrial areas.