DJI is playing a crucial role in a new biodiversity monitoring initiative, partnering with the Environmental Robotics Lab at ETH Zurich and environmental NGO Wilderness International. The project, which began in March 2024, leverages DJI's advanced drone technology to collect environmental DNA (eDNA) from previously difficult-to-reach areas, particularly treetops in dense rainforest regions.
Enhancing Biodiversity Research with eDNA Sampling
Traditional methods of biodiversity monitoring are often resource-intensive, requiring significant time and financial investment, particularly in remote areas like rainforest canopies. The new eDNA project seeks to address these challenges by utilizing DJI’s Matrice drones, which have been equipped with a specially designed robotic arm developed by ETH Zurich. This technology enables the collection of eDNA samples from areas that are rich in biodiversity but have been historically challenging to access.
By collecting eDNA, researchers can analyze genetic material left by organisms in specific locations, offering a non-invasive way to identify species presence. This method is particularly valuable for studying upper rainforest layers, which are believed to host the majority of species in these ecosystems.
Initial Findings and Future Applications
Since the project’s launch, 36 samples have been collected from three different locations in the Peruvian rainforest, areas under the protection of Wilderness International. The data gathered from these samples is providing new insights into the biodiversity of these regions, contributing to conservation efforts.
This project is supported by a coalition of partners: ETH Zurich provided the sampling technology, the Audi Environmental Foundation funded the initiative, and local research organization Fauna Forever is offering comparative data from conventional methods.
Wilderness International plans to expand the use of this technology to conservation areas in Canada, aiming to fill existing gaps in biodiversity data. The collaboration between these organizations highlights the potential of drone technology to enhance scientific research in remote and ecologically significant areas.
This project demonstrates how emerging technologies like drones can contribute to environmental research, offering new ways to monitor and protect biodiversity in some of the world's most critical habitats.
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