An Innovation in eDNA Sampling

We just co-authored a new paper advancing our environmental DNA (eDNA) technique. eDNA allows us to find fish without ever seeing them. We can detect tiny traces of genetic material that fish leave behind in their environment—like in sand on the beach. In this study, we tested a new method called FloppE-Dip, where a specialized, toonie sized paper is dipped into sand and water to “grab” DNA, allowing us to leave all the sand on the beach.

We tried this method on beaches across the Salish Sea to detect Pacific sand lance—a small but important forage fish. While the new method didn’t capture quite as much DNA as traditional techniques (sending 1 cup of sand to the lab), it still worked well and allows us to collect DNA in culturally sensitive areas without taking any material. Bonus – we also don’t need to ship frozen sand!

The big takeaway? A quick visit at the right time can tell us a lot about who is using what habitat. Tools like FloppE-Dip can help more people—like community scientists and coastal stewards—get involved in monitoring and protecting the species that support our coastal ecosystems.