eDNA Metabarcoding: A Revolutionary Tool for Sustainable Farming and Crop Optimization

A Curtin University study has demonstrated the potential of environmental DNA (eDNA) metabarcoding as a powerful tool for farmers to enhance crop production while benefiting the environment. Published in Ecological Indicators, the research tracked insect interactions with avocado flowers at orchards in Western Australia.

Led by Dr. Joshua Kestel and Associate Professor Paul Nevill, the team used eDNA metabarcoding to extract and amplify DNA from flower samples, identifying the presence of pollinators, pests, and predators. This method proved five times more effective in detecting pest species than digital video recording.

Dr. Kestel emphasized that eDNA metabarcoding could optimize agricultural practices by revealing native pollinators’ roles, improving pollination, and enabling targeted pest management. This precision approach could reduce pesticide use, preserving wild pollinators and natural predators while cutting costs.

Though still in its early stages, eDNA metabarcoding holds significant promise for revolutionizing sustainable agriculture.

To learn more: https://phys.org/news/2024-11-edna-metabarcoding-pollinators-aiming-boost.html