Decoding dissolved information: environmental DNA sequencing at global scale to monitor a changing ocean

Abstract

The use of environmental DNA (eDNA) technology for environmental monitoring is rapidly expanding, with applications for fisheries, coral reefs, harmful algal blooms, invasive and endangered species, and biodiversity monitoring. By enabling detection of species over space and time, eDNA fulfills a fundamental need of environmental surveys. Traditional surveys are expensive, require significant capital expenditure, and can be destructive; eDNA offers promise for cheaper, less invasive, and higher-resolution (i.e. genetic) assessments of environments and stocks. However, challenges in quantification, detection limits, biobanking capacity, reference databases, and data management and integration remain significant hurdles to efficient eDNA monitoring at global and decadal scale. Here, we consider the current state of eDNA technology and its suitability for the problems for which it is being used. We explore the current best practices, the logistical and social challenges that prevent eDNA from widespread adoption and benefit, and the emerging technologies that may address those challenges.