Application of eDNA Metabarcoding Technology to Monitor the Health of Aquatic Ecosystems

Abstract

Environmental DNA (eDNA) is DNA isolated from environmental samples. It is distinctly different from genomic DNA, which is extracted directly from biological specimens. eDNA metabarcoding technology is a novel surveillance tool combining eDNA and second-generation high-throughput sequencing technology. Different from conventional approaches and biomonitoring techniques, eDNA metabarcoding technology (eMT) has many advantages, such as promising timeliness and accuracy, lower time consumption, and low cost, and thus is widely used in ecological and environmental monitoring, including that in rivers, lakes, oceans, soils, and sediments. As a tool, eDNA metabarcoding technology supplements the evaluation of environmental qualities by monitoring both the diversity of aquatic biology communities and target species. In addition, it is essential to understand the limitations of eDNA metabarcoding technology in practical applications. As a tool, eDNA metabarcoding technology features high efficiency, providing indicators of environmental health and allowing for the indirect estimation of the impact and extent of water pollution with respect to aquatic ecosystems. It provides new insights for aquatic environment protection.