Rwanda uses eDNA to monitor endangered species

In the mist-covered forests of Rwanda's Volcanoes National Park, scientists are using a new technology known as environmental DNA to detect and protect endangered species such as golden monkeys and mountain gorillas. The approach, which analyzes genetic material left in soil and water, aims to complement traditional monitoring methods that are often hindered by the park's rugged terrain and security concerns.

The technology, called eDNA, allows researchers to identify species from traces of fur or feces without direct observation, reducing the impact of human interaction during wildlife surveys. The African Wildlife Foundation, in partnership with the Rwandan government, introduced eDNA to develop a comprehensive list of all species in the country, helping to protect biodiversity threatened by climate change and population growth.

"We selected eDNA as a new technology to bring solutions and to complement existing methods used in ecological monitoring," said Patrick Nsabimana, the foundation's country manager for Rwanda.

Traditional monitoring has relied on camera traps and ranger observations, but steep ravines and mountainsides in the Virunga mountains make this challenging....