Protecting native animals using DNA Metabarcoding

A new Curtin University study has found that eDNA is a game changer to help protect native animals by using sophisticated DNA technology called DNA metabarcoding.

In this interview with lead researcher Dr Mieke Van Der Heyde, we explore what exactly DNA metabarcoding is, how it was discovered and how this idea and tool was utilised  in relation to native animals in Australia and animal restoration.

In two research papers, published in Molecular Ecology and Biodiversity and Conservation, animals and insects across multiple regions in Western Australia were studied to find out where the use of DNA metabarcoding would be most effective to monitor restoration.

Dr Mieke Van Der Heyde joins Fiona On The Record to discuss.

Mieke van der Heyde