DNA samples | Lifewatch regional portal

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DNA samples

A huge percentage of marine biodiversity encompasses prokaryotic organisms and viruses, too often neglected in conventional marine biodiversity surveys. Prokaryotes and viruses are of high importance for they are capable to recycle nutrients and cycling carbon, nitrogen, phosphorous, and trace elements around. Rapid advances in DNA sequencing and analysis techniques allow the study of biodiversity from both environmental samples (e.g. water) and biotic samples (e.g. actual specimens), contributing to an improved understanding into the biodiversity of the ecosystem.

The LifeWatch observatory is generating a sample library describing genetic diversity from both filtered and unfiltered seawater. The water sampling, preservation and processing protocol can be consulted here. For requesting samples and for information about conditions of use, please contact info@lifewatch.be.

An overview of the available samples is provided in this table.