DNA analysis
Bennelongia combines advanced molecular science with on-ground land management. By integrating genetic tools into biodiversity assessments, we provide robust, objective data to support conservation and compliance. Bennelongia has been generating DNA sequence from biodiversity surveys since 2008 (in-house since 2014) and currently holds over 8,000 DNA barcode sequences. These sequences form the basis of one the most comprehensive genetic databases for invertebrate fauna in Western Australia. To support scientific effort within the Western Australia community, nationally and globally, our DNA team regularly uploads the sequences we generate to GenBank, the major publicly available genetic repository, managed by the National Centre for Biotechnology Information (NCBI).
We have recently installed state-of-the-art molecular labs in our new premises, allowing us to currently provide the following services:
- Genetic Species Identification – We use DNA barcoding, focussing on the most informative barcodes for each taxonomic group, and comparison to our comprehensive reference genetic database to assist with the species-level identification of specimens where visual ID is challenging or where confirmation of an undescribed species is required. This ensures taxonomic certainty for impact assessments.
- Diversity Mapping – We generate robust objective data for species distribution mapping, ongoing biodiversity monitoring, and other ecological studies.
- eDNA Detection – By analysing the traces of DNA that organisms shed into their surroundings we apply highly sensitive, non-invasive eDNA technologies to detect, identify, and monitor species from environmental samples without physical capture.
- Population level assessments – We have the capability to analyse variation at the population level, to help understand if populations within a species are distinct from one another
Our services are available to both our clients as part of commissioned EIA aligned jobs, as well as standalone jobs for all operators in need including other consultancies and freelance agents.
