Speakers:
Ali Mirabzadeh, M.Sc., Senior Analyst, Forensic & DNA Services, Maxxam Analytics
Jared Hobbs, M.Sc., R.P.Bio., Technical Expert – Terrestrial Ecology, Hemmera Envirochem
Please join our complimentary webinar on October 17th, 2018: Environmental DNA (eDNA) – An overview of methods and applications for protection and management of aquatic and semi-aquatic native and invasive species.
This webinar is part of Maxxam’s technical education program designed to share knowledge in the area of environmental applied science and biotechnology with our key clients.
Traditional methods for conducting ecological surveys for species of management interest are often time and cost intensive, susceptible to observer bias, limited in the ability to confirm species distributions, especially for cryptic species, and can be intrusive to the sensitive habitats occupied by species at risk.
Environmental DNA (eDNA) monitoring offers an alternative method to detect the DNA of specific amphibian, fish, and mammalian species using simple, affordable laboratory-based and proven tests.
eDNA is defined as genetic material for species of interest obtained from environmental matrices, such as soil, sediment or water without the need for observation of the source. This is a non-invasive approach with methodology that can be standardized at both the field collection and laboratory analysis stages.
Maxxam has partnered with the University of Victoria (Dr. Caren Helbing) and environmental consulting firm Hemmera Envirochem Inc. to refine and advance eDNA-based detection protocols.
In this webinar, the following topics will be discussed:
- An overview of eDNA principles and analytical approach
- Sample collection requirements
- Limitations and advantages of eDNA compared to traditional survey methods
- Case studies where eDNA successfully delivered efficiencies in time and cost relative to conventional methods
This webinar would be ideal for:
- Biologists
- Environmental Consultants
- Environmental Project Managers
- Mining Practitioners
- Regulators
- Risk Assessors
- Toxicologists