Revolutionizing Environmental Monitoring: U of G Researchers Pioneer DNA-Based Techniques
The University of Guelph is at the forefront of transforming environmental monitoring through innovative DNA-based methods. Led by Dr. Robert Hanner, professor in the Department of Integrative Biology and director of the Biodiversity Institute for Conservation Synthesis (BICS), this cross-functional research program aims to enhance the efficiency and accuracy of environmental assessments.
In collaboration with Ecological and Regulatory Solutions, a Guelph-based environmental consulting firm, Dr. Hanner’s team is comparing traditional taxonomic methods with advanced DNA-based techniques to identify benthic invertebrates—small aquatic animals and insects that serve as indicators of water quality. Traditional methods are often labor-intensive, costly, and require specialized expertise, making large-scale monitoring challenging. The DNA-based approach promises faster, more economical, and scalable assessments, potentially revolutionizing how industries monitor environmental impacts.
This research holds significant implications for natural resource companies, particularly those in mining and other sectors required by Canada’s Fisheries Act to conduct environmental effects monitoring. By adopting these innovative techniques, industries can ensure more sensitive and cost-effective monitoring, ultimately supporting sustainability and the protection of aquatic habitats.
For a more detailed overview of this groundbreaking research, please read the full news release here.
