DETECT Archives

A rapid molecular assay for detecting the Mediterranean fanworm developed by DETECT team and trialed by non-scientist users

22/06/2022

Learn about the new species-specific recombinase polymerase amplification (RPA) assay designed for the fanworm detection from eDNA samples and insights on its applicability for citizen scientists-driven biosecurity surveillance.

Our PhD student Michelle Scriver presents her work at an international eDNA webinar

25/05/2022

Watch Michelle's talk on experimental study of environmental DNA & RNA fate for biosecurity applications, presented at the first Australia & New Zealand eDNA webinar.

Experimental insights on effective eDNA/eRNA capture from seawater samples

19/05/2022

An experimental study was conducted to test different filter membranes for capturing eDNA/eRNA in the context of cost/time effort and cell fractions encountered in nature. For the first time a formal efficiency modelling was applied in eDNA and eRNA research to assist decision-making around an optimized sampling approach.

Meet Gerd Banke – Nelson science teacher on a marine biosecurity mission

05/04/2022

With the experienced science teacher onboard we are aiming to develop an engaging educational toolkit that brings eDNA technologies into the classroom, introducing students to the cutting edge molecular technologies and building up a strong sense of kaitiakitanga for their local environment.

From forensic science to marine biosecurity – a new PhD researcher Michelle Scriver joins the team!

20/02/2022

Welcome our new PhD researcher - Michelle Scriver. By answering critical questions regarding eDNA distribution in coastal waters and where, when, and how to sample, her project will contribute to optimized and more efficient detection of marine pests.

The journey of eDNA marine intruder to the classroom

23/12/2021

In the last two years the Detect team worked towards integrating DNA (eDNA) tools into New Zealand schools’ curriculum. The scientists have actively engaged with a range of schools and year groups to showcase a variety of marine biosecurity concepts and detection tools, including eDNA technologies.

From North to South – scientists set sail for two collaborative expeditions

01/11/2021

In 2021, the DETECT team had a big year on the water participating in two research expeditions, in two very distant and ecologically different areas of Aotearoa: Northland and Fiordland. These expeditions allowed us to collect valuable data on distribution of the high-profile non-indigenous species while testing our optimized molecular surveillance tools and protocols.

Lessons from an international cross-laboratory experiment on delivering reproducible metabarcoding data

20/08/2021

Acknowledging the need for a coordinated effort to accelerate the uptake of high-throughput sequencing (HTS) based tools for biodiversity surveys and biosecurity applications, an international cross-laboratory experiment was conducted to evaluate replicability of a metabarcoding protocol and explore how laboratory-based variance in sample handling and processing impacts biodiversity assessments.

Joint Microplastics and Marine Biosecurity expedition

07/06/2021

Our 12-14 day expedition will collect microplastics and biosecurity data in the Hauraki Gulf & Islands areas and Whangarei, whilst exploring the wider marine environment of coastal Greater Auckland and Northland. This interdisciplinary oceanic research expedition aims to inspire and engage the public and educate people about the importance of working collaboratively to preserve a healthy ocean.

Towards the optimization of eDNA/eRNA sampling technologies for marine biosecurity surveillance

19/04/2021

An open-access peer-reviewed publication aimed to facilitate dialogue and innovation within this sector by reviewing current approaches for sample collection, post-sampling capture and concentration of eDNA, preservation, and extraction, all through a biosecurity monitoring lens.

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