Having eDNA research conducted by Sylphium ensures reliable results for your agency or company—without requiring in-house knowledge of molecular ecology. Sampling is performed by you, and the collected samples are sent to Sylphium’s laboratory. All analyses are validated, published, and carried out in accordance with strict quality assurance rules based on NPR 7394. A complete list of target species can be found here.
Sylphium has developed a proprietary sampling system that allows error-free and highly reliable sample collection. The core of this system is the eDNA Dual Filter Capsule. Specialized materials for soil and droppings samples are also available. All materials meet the requirements of NPR 7394.
Roadmap for eDNA Research
| Step | Description | Performed by |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Choose type of eDNA research | Client (in consultation with Sylphium) |
| 2 | Sampling strategy | Client (in consultation with Sylphium) |
| 3 | Sampling | Client |
| 4 | Send samples to laboratory | Client |
| 5 | Analysis | Sylphium |
| 6 | Preparation of analysis report | Sylphium |
| 7 | Final report | Client |
Each of these steps is explained in more detail below.
Choosing the Right Type of DNA Testing
Several DNA-based methods can detect species quickly, reliably, and with high sensitivity. The table below helps determine which method best fits your research question.
| Species specific | Species identification (barcoding) | Species list (metabarcoding) | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Description | Detect a specific target species, quantitatively or qualitatively, with very high sensitivity. | Identify a species based on material from a single individual. | Semi-quantitatively generate a species list of the most common species within a group. |
| Suitable for | Fish, amphibians, mammals, reptiles, invertebrates, pathogens, plants, bacteria. | Fish, amphibians, mammals, reptiles, and larger invertebrates. | Fish, bacteria, and eukaryotes. |
| Sample type | Water, soil, tissue residues, and faeces. | Tissue residues and faeces. | Water, soil, and faeces. |
| Analysis | qPCR | Barcoding | Metabarcoding |
| Lead time | Within 10 working days (urgent possible) | Approx. 14 working days | Approx. 3 months (often faster possible) |
Sampling Strategy
Sylphium’s eDNA analyses achieve the highest possible sensitivity (1 molecule per analysis). Therefore, sampling has the greatest impact on detection probability.
For maximum detection probability, correct sample registration, and prevention of cross-contamination, follow the eDNA sampling guidelines and the manual of the sampling set.
Sampling
Water, faeces, and soil can be sampled to demonstrate specific target species or to determine species composition. Sylphium has dedicated sampling kits for each sample type. After sampling, samples are stored in a special buffer and can be kept at room temperature. For more information, see the sampling section.
Analysis
- 1) eDNA extraction: Extraction of clean eDNA for reliable downstream analysis.
- 2) Quality control: Control DNA in the preservation buffer verifies sample quality, extraction efficiency, and potential inhibitors.
- 3) Target species analysis: A wide range of validated eDNA tests, available as kits and as a service; all analyses follow strict NPR-based quality standards.
Report
The results are presented in a clear report, including all validation and quality control information.