How eDNA could bear fruit for farmers and the environment?

A Curtin University study has unveiled an innovative DNA capture method that promises to be a game-changer for farmers, enhancing crop yields while simultaneously supporting environmental sustainability. Researchers at the School of Molecular and Life Sciences employed cutting-edge ‘eDNA metabarcoding’ to investigate the interactions between insects and avocado flowers across two orchards in Western Australia. The team collected bunches of flowers from avocado trees, which were then frozen and ground up before being taken through the DNA extraction process.