This June, in honor of National Ocean Month, we highlighted the game-changing technology that enables us to monitor and better understand the health of the ocean and the diverse life that calls it home.
One of the most exciting developments that leverages the teamwork between scientists and engineers at MBARI is the combination of two MBARI innovations—a long-range autonomous underwater vehicle and a novel “laboratory in a can”—to survey the drifting bits of genetic material known as environmental DNA (eDNA) left behind by marine life. These cutting-edge robots can give us new insight into biodiversity changes in sensitive areas and track rare, endangered, and invasive species–all critical to understanding and maintaining a healthy ocean.
Good data are key to addressing major threats to the ocean, including climate change. This technology allows us to access and monitor eDNA more efficiently and spot changes much more quickly–which are critical in efforts to tackle climate change.
The ocean is the big blue heart of our planet. Ultimately, we need a diversity of perspectives and minds to solve the challenges it faces. When scientists from all disciplines work with engineers and communicators, we can inspire collective action for the ocean, together. Learn more about eDNA on our website.