Environmental DNA, or eDNA, is an evolving new tool that helps us understand the ecosystems below the waves. Water samples with eDNA can show scientists what types of animals are present, how many there are, and how long they’ve been there.
NOAA Fisheries is pleased to announce the selection of Tracy Sims as the new Director for its Operations, Management and Information Services Division for the Alaska Fisheries Science Center.
Using molecular genetic tools and techniques to study marine mammals and gather information essential for their successful conservation and management in the Southeast Region.
As animals swim, they shed scales, tissue, and waste, leaving traces of DNA in the water. Scientists collect a water sample and analyze the DNA found in it, identifying the species that left it behind without capturing a single animal.
Two new initiatives are underway on the fall ecosystem monitoring survey on the Northeast Shelf: looking for traces of mercury in seawater, and using eDNA to study finfish diversity.
We conduct a variety of genetic research on Pacific salmon, groundfish, and forage fish species to comply with regional, national, and international agreements and treaties for managing marine resources.
