The ZooLab team from the Plant Science and Biodiversity Center of the Slovak Academy of Sciences has started eDNA (environmental DNA) sampling at our site in Čiližské močiare. This marks an exciting step in our ongoing efforts to monitor impact of our measures aimed to boost wetland biodiversity.
eDNA metabarcoding is a cutting-edge technique that allows scientists to detect a wide range of species — from tiny aquatic organisms to larger mammals — simply by analyzing genetic traces they leave behind in water or soil. It’s non-invasive, cost-effective, and incredibly sensitive, making it possible to uncover hidden biodiversity that traditional monitoring might miss.
This sampling comes just in time, as livestock will arrive soon at the site to help suppress invasive alien species (IAS) and prevent the wetland from grounding (accumulating of biomass). The combination of innovative science and traditional land management ensures a more complete picture of ecosystem health and resilience.
We’re proud to support such modern, science-based conservation work — and excited to see what the data will reveal!
Stay tuned for more updates from Čiližské močiare!