Validation of eDNA technology using DFO survey data: Offshore and EBSA sampling

Fisheries and Oceans Canada provided approximately $210,000 via the Partnership Fund to this collaborative project of the Government of Nunavut and Amec Foster Wheeler for this eDNA research involving aboriginal, national, and international collaborators. Analysing water for DNA traces shed by fish is a new approach to assessing fish populations. It is a continuation of eDNA research started in 2016 and Amec Foster Wheeler researchers are working to validate the application of eDNA methodology against long accepted monitoring methods used to manage marine fishery resources and ecosystems.

The goal is to determine if eDNA methods could potentially supplement or replace existing capture methodologies. Developing an inexpensive, rapid survey method, with no-environmental impacts, is particularly important in data poor regions such as the Arctic and for applications inside Marine Protected Areas. Validation of new technology is important before any large scale investments are implemented, to ensure funds are appropriately invested. The eDNA method has possible application in multiple aspects of fisheries and oceans management.

Project number: NFLD2016.13
Year: 2016, 2017
Partner(s): Government of Nunavut, Amec Foster Wheeler
Principal Investigator: Dr. Alexandra Eaves
Eco-region: Arctic