The ANERIS project (ANERIS – operAtional seNsing lifE technologies for maRIne ecosystemS) aims to tackle the rapid loss of ocean biodiversity by developing innovative tools and technology for monitoring, research and management of marine life, and introducing the concept of Operational Marine Biology (OMB). OMB is a biodiversity information system which allows long-term routine measurements of ocean and coastal ecosystems and their quick interpretation and dissemination to all relevant stakeholders.

ANERIS aims at empowering civil society through participative technologies and collaborative networks and, to this aim, the project has developed this short course on Exploring Marine Biodiversity using eDNA for Citizen Scientists. This is a self-paced course.

Application procedure

Since this is a self-paced course, you can start at anytime. In order to enroll, you will need to use the enrolment key XXXXXX

Learning outcomes

By the end of the course the learner will be able to:

Define what eDNA is.
Explain the importance of eDNA in identifying and monitoring marine organisms without direct observation or invasive sampling.
Describe the applications of eDNA in tracking biodiversity changes due to pollution, climate change, and the presence of invasive or endangered species.
Discuss the role of eDNA in supporting marine conservation, environmental health monitoring, and fisheries management.
Explain the limitations of eDNA, such as detection limits, taxonomic resolution, and challenges in distinguishing live organisms from decaying matter.
Evaluate how these limitations affect the interpretation of eDNA data and the need for integrating eDNA with traditional methods to improve marine conservation efforts.
Explain the importance of using standardized sampling protocols
Follow previously established sampling protocols whilst complying with safety procedures as needed.

DISCLAIMER: Views and opinions expressed are however those of the author(s) only and do not necessarily reflect those of the European Union. Neither the European Union nor the granting authority can be held responsible for them.