Spray Aggregation
By utilizing pressure water sprayers, we can mobilize DNA deposited on the surfaces of vegetation by a target species and capture this eDNA using clean buckets or bags to collect drip water. This method of aggregating surface eDNA is particularly useful in agricultural settings such as vineyards or vegetable plots, but can also be used to sample forest understory. Below, we’ve supplemented our written protocol for spray aggregation with a video demonstration. If you have any questions, please feel free to reach out to us here.
Protocol: Spray Aggregation Protocol
Image of Supplies
1. Pressure Sprayer 2. Peristaltic pump 3. eDNA Filters (e.g. Smith-Root™ self desiccating) 4. Gloves 5. Pump charger 6. Graduated Cylinder 7. Pump tubing 8. Garbage bags 9. Carboy filled with DI 10. Writing utensils 11. Clipboard and data sheets 12a. Cleaned collection buckets 12b. Sterile collection bags