How collecting DNA samples in the wild could transform conservation

Rwanda’s Volcanoes National Park is adopting environmental DNA (eDNA) technology to track endangered species without direct human contact. Researchers collect genetic material from soil, water, or feces to identify animals like golden monkeys and mountain gorillas, addressing the challenges of dense terrain and security risks in the Virunga Mountains region. The African Wildlife Foundation, in partnership with the Rwandan government, introduced eDNA to complement traditional methods such as camera traps and ranger observations, which struggle in rugged landscapes. The project aims to create a comprehensive species inventory for Rwanda, supporting conservation efforts threatened by climate change and population growth. Patrick Nsabimana, the foundation’s Rwanda country manager, highlighted eDNA’s cost-effectiveness in large ecosystems like Virunga, where a single sample can detect multiple species, including mammals, birds, and amphibians. Deogratias Tuyisingize, a biodiversity researcher with the Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund, emphasized that combining eDNA with traditional methods ensures no species are overlooked due to inaccessible terrain. Early warnings of invasive species and tracking endangered populations could improve anti-poaching patrols, while monitoring rehabilitated park areas helps measure conservation success. However, limitations exist: eDNA cannot accurately estimate animal populations, and DNA traces may linger after species depart. Processing samples in Rwanda remains difficult, as initial tests required shipment to Europe, and challenges like cold storage and contamination risk persist. Africa’s limited genetic reference libraries, largely sourced from Europe and America, complicate species identification, prompting researchers to build region-specific databases. The project also trains local communities and rangers to collect samples, fostering broader participation. Despite obstacles, eDNA offers a promising tool for biodiversity conservation in Rwanda’s expanding national parks.