IPB University Develops e-DNA Method for Mapping Aquatic Biodiversity

A research team from the Department of Aquatic Resource Management, Faculty of Fisheries and Marine Sciences (FPIK) at IPB University has successfully developed an innovative approach to mapping and monitoring aquatic biodiversity.

Dr Inna Puspa Ayu and her team have successfully implemented environmental DNA (e-DNA) technology as an innovative approach to mapping and monitoring aquatic biodiversity.

“This revolutionary method enables the non-invasive detection of various aquatic species through water sample analysis, eliminating the need to capture or disturb the organisms,” she explained.

The development of the e-DNA method is part of an innovation initiative centered at the e-COAST Lab (Environmental Complexity and Omics for Aquatic Systems and Taxa). This aquatic biomolecular research laboratory was established under the initiative of Prof Yusli Wardiatno, one of the senior researchers at the Department of MSP at IPB University.

The e-COAST Lab focuses its research on utilizing emic approaches and molecular technologies to explore the complexity of aquatic ecosystems across Indonesia.

Through a series of comprehensive field studies at strategic locations such as Raja Ampat, the Ciliwung River, and other tropical coastal areas, the e-DNA method has proven effective in:

• Uncovering the structure of microbial and protist communities influenced by ocean currents and ecosystem dynamics;  

• Detecting potentially invasive alien species such as Cherax quadricarinatus;  

• Conducting barcoding and phylogenetic analysis on important fish species such as groupers (Serranidae);  

• Building aquatic trophic networks as a foundation for ecosystem-based fisheries management.

“By adopting the e-DNA approach, we are not only able to identify species that are difficult to detect visually, but also gain real-time insights into ongoing ecological changes,” explained Dr Inna.

She noted that this method has great potential in supporting biodiversity conservation efforts, aquatic resource management, and the control of invasive species spread, as well as mitigating the impacts of environmental changes in a more targeted and sustainable manner. 

“This research significantly demonstrates how molecular science can directly contribute to the formulation of more effective environmental management strategies,” she explained.

According to her, this success further strengthens IPB University’s position as a pioneer in aquatic biodiversity research and the application of molecular technology at both national and global levels. (AS/Rz) (IAAS/ASY)