Our latest publication explores an innovative approach to monitoring marine biodiversity in the Tyrrhenian Sea, integrating traditional methods with new technologies. By combining citizen science with environmental DNA (eDNA) analysis, the study, coordinated by Ginevra Boldrocchi in collaboration with CNR IRSA, has identified elusive and threatened species through molecular innovations.
This study is part of the Marine Adventure for Research and Education (M.A.R.E.) project, which engages the public in monitoring marine biodiversity using direct observations and analysis of DNA present in the environment (eDNA).
The research: The development of new species-specific primers has confirmed the presence of key species such as the long-finned pilot whale, as well as identifying other at-risk species such as the fin whale, the loggerhead sea turtle, and the basking shark. This research is based on a non-invasive approach that integrates approximately 100 volunteers with molecular analyses, setting a new standard for large-scale monitoring and conservation of marine biodiversity.
