Metabarcoding refers to the identification of species assemblages from community DNA (i.e. DNA from a mixture of different organisms in a sample) using barcode Genes (i.e. genes able to be used to identify the source organism). This technique can identify hundreds of species in each sample, and 100+ different samples can be processed in parallel. This is a different technique to eDNA qPCR testing described here.
Metabarcode data sets are more comprehensive, many times quicker to produce, and are less reliant on taxonomic expertise than traditional methods (e.g. those based structural features of organisms); they also enable many opportunities for research.
We work closely with technical experts NatureMetrics (a DNA based monitoring company) who can analyse samples using metabarcoding techniques for a variety of community assemblages including:
- Fish
- Crayfish
- Mammals
- Amphibians
- Vertebrates
- Macroinvertebrates
- Bacteria
- Bivalves
Metabarcoding techniques can also be applied to soil and sediment samples targeting a range of different taxonomic groups (bacteria, soil fauna, eukaryotes and fungi).
Additionally, DNA-based techniques are available to be used on faecal samples to either identify the host species or its prey (diet).
If you would like to discuss the options available regarding DNA analyses please contact ecology@crestwoodenvironmental.co.uk or call 01902 229 563 (Nick Masters)
If you would like to contact us about these services – please visit our contact page here.
Are you interested in developing a career in this service area? If so, please visit or contact us via our careers page here.
