eDNA

Delivering power sector projects while keeping rare species safe

By Jake Riley

Embracing a progressive technology All living organisms expel genetic material into their environment. We call this matter environmental DNA (eDNA). When it comes to fish and other aquatic species, eDNA is shed through the skin, scales, and waste into the water they inhabit. By sampling the water and analyzing this eDNA, we can detect the presence of a species we’re specifically looking for. Conventional methods for detecting aquatic species can take a long time, are expensive, and can harm the target species and their habitat. This is where new eDNA technology provides an advantage. eDNA has proven reliable at detecting rare species at low densities—it helps us in cases where we’re searching for species that are hard to find. The method is also advantageous because, compared with conventional methods, sampling for eDNA is: • More sensitive • Cost-effective • Safer for both species and field staff • Less harmful to environment • More objective for identifying species. We are deploying the latest tools to sample, extract, and analyze eDNA to detect the presence of target species in the field. These tools allow us to produce accurate and rapid results. We partner with a network of leading research laboratories, giving us access to the latest tools to deliver eDNA results where and when it is needed.

THE LOCATION OF IMPORTANT PROJECTS LOCATED NEAR BODIES OF WATER COULD IMPACT AQUATIC LIFE.

Conventional methods of observing and detecting aquatic species can be time-consuming, expensive, and harmful. Using eDNA sampling, we can perform non-invasive surveys for the presence of these species—potentially saving your projects time and money.

By knowing what species are living in a suggested design area our clients can make more informed project decisions faster and more confidently.

more sensitive, cost-effective, safer for both species and field staff

less harmful to the environment, and more objective for identifying species

Heading forward Stantec’s eDNA team is exploring additional applications of eDNA in the field to address client questions; we are learning, adapting, and embracing eDNA tools to provide reliable data about the presence of rare species for our clients. Building on our experience with eDNA and detecting aquatic species, we’re now exploring uses in terrestrial ecosystems including detecting for bats. We’re excited to see just how far we can expand the use of eDNA tools on our projects!

Help our clients meet their regulatory requirements effectively and efficiently while reducing costs and avoiding harmful impacts to rare species.

Our Goal?

Results from the field Through our lab partnerships, we can test for more than 100 species using eDNA technology and the species list is growing. Notable studies thus far include the Jefferson salamander, an endangered species in Ontario, and the Atlantic salmon, whose status is endangered in the US and Canada. In 2017, we tested 10 sites for the Jefferson salamander. Nine out of ten test sites confirmed historical data of species presence or absence, based on visual surveys in early spring. However, eDNA testing at one site showed that Jefferson salamander was present when past visual surveys indicated that it was absent.

Similarly, we sampled five stream sites for Atlantic salmon in 2018 using eDNA. We didn’t detect Atlantic salmon in the streams; however, we did detect eDNA downstream from our positive field control—a single caged Atlantic salmon—confirming that the tools were working. Our work has shown that eDNA is delivering on its promise as a fast, cost-effective, sensitive tool for detecting the presence of rare, threatened, and endangered species at low densities in the environment. We have also used eDNA to track invasive species so our clients can plan ahead for project needs.

We are at the forefront of using eDNA tools to reliably identify the presence of rare species in the field. Visit our eDNA page to learn more.

Explore eDNA

Right now, our planet is facing a biodiversity challenge and some tough realities with regards to rare and endangered species. Globally, countless numbers of plant and animal species face extinction. Populations of some living organisms have declined at an alarming rate. By monitoring these animals, we help design projects that reduce and avoid impacts to these species.

Explore eDNA

Testing against control samples, eDNA can help us efficiently detect what rare species are present in a project area; our clients can then use that information to refine project designs to protect these important species and meet regulatory requirements.

Knowing the environment you are working in is essential at every stage of a project.