First eDNA lab for Scottish aquaculture

Underwater ecological survey company Ocean Ecology is developing the state-of-the-art lab in its existing facilities at the European Marine Science Park (EMSP) near Oban.

The company has secured a GBP 21,642 investment from Highlands and Islands Enterprise (HIE) towards the total project costs of GBP 108,000. This will be used to acquire the equipment for the extraction and purification of eDNA from sediment and water samples taken from the marine environment.

Its analysis can be used to study biodiversity and monitor marine ecosystem changes, including water quality and the early detection of invasive species.

Ocean Ecology has expanded rapidly in recent years, providing services to the growing aquaculture and renewable energy sectors.

The company said there has been growing interest in eDNA analysis among its client base, and this is expected to lead to substantial industry demand in the short-term. It will also support the creation of four new skilled jobs.

“The addition of eDNA services will allow us to continue to provide services to our clients during the full life cycle of an aquaculture site, from pre-development site characterisation and licensing to compliance monitoring and diagnostics,” Ocean Ecology Laboratory Manager Dr Michael Redford said.

“By keeping up with regulatory change we can remain reactive to our clients’ needs. Outwith the aquaculture sector our new facility will also allow us to serve several other industries, including an expanding offshore renewable sector.”

HIE’s Area Manager for Argyll and the Islands Morag Goodfellow said the marine environment around Scotland offers tremendous potential for sustainable commercial activity, and many companies are involved in various initiatives that tap into this.

“Ocean Ecology is a great example. The company is part of a growing cluster of marine related innovation at the EMSP. this latest project to create an eDNA lab will trigger further growth of the company while enhancing the wider expertise that’s available in Scotland. I’m delighted we are able to support the project and look forward to continuing to work with Ocean Ecology as they continue their growth,” she said.