The Nature Files (Ep. 2): The Case of the Disappearing DNA

In our first case file, we find out how environmental DNA can be used to assess the health of an entire ecosystem-all by looking at some of that ecosystem’s smallest inhabitants: amphipods. It’s a grand idea, but the DNA of these tiny shrimplike critters is as elusive as the creatures themselves. Will researchers find a way to detect the disappearing DNA and crack this case?
Hey, teachers! Here’s a cheat sheet of what’s included in this episode of The Nature Files:
• What is an amphipod? What role do they play in the ocean environment?
• Using amphipods to assess ecosystem health
• Using eDNA to detect amphipods; genetic tags
• Experiments to explore the limits of eDNA; mesocosms; DNA degradation
This episode is part of our series Nature Files. From invasive crabs to lost whales, tapping into the world of environmental DNA can be the key to solving some of nature’s biggest riddles. Join us as we crack the code on nature and unlock mysteries in The Nature Files.
Created by the Hakai Institute
Produced and edited by Katrina Pyne
Narrated by Grant Callegari
Script revisions by Kelly Fretwell
Fact-checking by Matt Lemay and Brittany Cummings
Videography by Katrina Pyne, Bennett Whitnell, and Grant Callegari
Additional videography by Alana Closs, Noriko Okamoto, Derek VanMaanen, and Kelly Fretwell
This publication is endorsed by the United Nations Decade of Ocean Science for Sustainable Development as a Decade Activity. Use of the United Nations Decade of Ocean Science for Sustainable Development logo by a non-UN entity does not imply the endorsement of the United Nations of such entity, its products or services, or of its planned activities. For more information please access: forum.oceandec...

[@osmia]

These guys bringing back some really good reminiscing for me from time spent with my early morning coffee on Malcolm Island beaches