Targeted detection of species
Would you like to quickly and reliably determine whether a protected species or invasive exotic is present? With eDNA research, we detect species without disturbing the ecosystem—efficient, highly sensitive, and widely applicable.
When to choose eDNA research?
eDNA analysis is the right choice when you want to:
- be certain about the presence of a specific species;
- obtain a broad overview of biodiversity;
- comply with requirements under environmental legislation;
- complement or accelerate traditional field surveys;
- detect species that are difficult to observe visually.
Applications of targeted detection
Protected species
Within environmental regulations, it is often mandatory to demonstrate the presence of protected species before starting activities. With eDNA research, you gain quick insight into the presence of these species, enabling more targeted fieldwork and providing a well-substantiated basis for permit applications in time.
Practical example: bats in cavity walls
When retrofitting insulation in homes, it is essential to determine whether bats use cavity walls. Targeted eDNA bat research—by sampling entry and exit points—can demonstrate whether bats are (or have been) present. This helps determine early on whether additional research or mitigation measures are needed and prevents project delays.
Practical example: great crested newt
The great crested newt is a protected species that can be difficult to observe. Using eDNA from water samples, its presence can be detected quickly and reliably, allowing field visits to be carried out more efficiently. Applications include area development, infrastructure projects, and nature management.
Invasive alien species
Early detection of invasive alien species is essential to limit their spread and impact. eDNA research makes it possible to identify these species at an early stage, monitor their distribution, and take targeted management and control measures.
Practical example: American crayfish
eDNA can detect even low densities of crayfish in a water body, enabling early intervention.
Practical example: Japanese knotweed
Soil DNA analysis can confirm the presence of Japanese knotweed, even when above-ground parts of the plant are not visible.
Other examples of species we detect include:
- Muskrat
- Topmouth gudgeon (Pseudorasbora parva)
- American bullfrog
Sampling types
Water
eDNA analysis is highly effective in aquatic environments such as ditches, streams, ponds, and rivers. It enables detection of:
- Fish
- Great crested newt
- Weatherfish
- Otter
Because DNA can move through water, results are always interpreted in combination with local ecological conditions.
Soil and terrestrial environments
For land-based species, eDNA is collected from soil or from traces such as hair and droppings. Applications include:
- Stone martens
- Voles
- Eurasian water shrew
- Plant species such as Japanese knotweed
Depending on the research question, soil analysis can be expanded to include insights into soil ecology, such as fungi and bacteria.
Research techniques
To detect a single specific species, we use qPCR (quantitative Polymerase Chain Reaction). The advantage of this technique is its very high sensitivity, allowing reliable confirmation of whether a species is present or not detected.
When identifying multiple species simultaneously, we use metabarcoding. This technique is applied for baseline measurements and biodiversity monitoring, understanding species communities in an area, screening multiple (invasive) species, and detecting unexpected species. A combination of these techniques is also possible, providing both a broader biodiversity picture and certainty about the presence of a specific species.
eDNA research by SGS Search
At SGS Search, we have in-house expertise for both sampling and accredited laboratory analysis. This means we can carry out the entire research process for you—from fieldwork to analysis and consultancy—offering a single point of contact throughout. With extensive experience across projects of varying size and complexity, we are ready to support your project. Contact us to discuss how we can help.
