The Magic of eDNA in Conservation - Dr. Maura Palacios Mejia

In this episode of Conservation Conversations we talk to Dr. Maura Palacios Mejia of the organization CALeDNA. CALeDNA program was founded by the UC Conservation Genomics Consortium that involved faculty from 6 UC Campuses. This group aims to address problems in biodiversity by having community scientists work with researchers to: collect soil and sediment samples from across California to become frozen archives of what the community was like at that place at the time of collection and sequence and analyze environmental DNA in the samples. This information will allow caledna to assess the biodiversity of different habitats throughout California. By openly sharing these methods and results, and creating strong networks, they can understand the potential of eDNA for conservation. Please check out their website and follow them on social media at @CAL.e.DNA. and check out their website at UCeDNA.com This episode is brought to you in part by our sponsor Tidal Influence, a Californian ecological consulting firm who proudly supports environmental education and all of the diverse conservation efforts that Pelecanus works to highlight. Visit their website at www.tidalinfluence.com to learn more about what they do to conserve our coastal resources and how you can get involved Producers on this episode is Austin Parker Music was provided by A Picture Book Studios