Members of the public are invited to a July 14 workshop at Monmouth University to learn about the results of recent environmental DNA (eDNA) research on the makeup of marine life in local waters. Food and refreshments will be served beginning at 6 p.m., with presentations starting at 6:45 p.m.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Over the first two weeks of June, volunteer community scientists collected samples of ocean waters, bays, and brackish areas of rivers from the Manasquan Inlet to the Raritan Bayshore in Monmouth County. The samples were then analyzed by the Monmouth University Urban Coast Institute (UCI) in a lab for eDNA, trace genetic materials floating in the water that can indicate the recent presence of marine life ranging from sharks to microscopic bacteria.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The data is building upon a collection effort that began in the fall<\/a>, which found detections for at least 68 fish species in the county\u2019s ocean and estuarine waters. The new data will help develop a baseline understanding of the species living in our waters in the warmer summer months that can be compared to future results. The project is being supported with grant funding secured by Rep. Frank Pallone, Jr.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The workshop will be held in room 201 of the Edison Science Building. Visitors may park in the main campus lot, accessible from Larchwood Avenue. Click here<\/a> to view an interactive campus map.<\/p>\n\n\n\n