Towards a simple way to collect eDNA using a 3D-printed passive sampler

Environmental DNA has emerged as a revolutionary approach to monitor aquatic biodiversity. The study of the released by macro-organisms in their habitat offers fast, non-invasive and sensitive presence. Despite its many advantages, methodological challenges limit widespread use eDNA. Among them, eDNA sampling represents one most challenging step. Often based on filtration large volume water, this process can be long tedious, requiring human intervention special care, which is not applicable wide range habitats. As an alternative filtration, passive using natural substrates appears promising solution. This uses properties some minerals (eg. silica), organisms sponges) or even communities (e.g. biofilms) collect preserved Yet, such approaches are difficult standardize may To circumvent that problem, we have designed 3D-printed samplers made hydroxyapatite (HAp samplers), mineral known for high binding affinity with DNA. shape been facilitate handling laboratory field experiments. Here describe test ability HAp recover freshwater We show efficiency effective small amounts waterlouse However, recovery also highly variable across understanding physico-chemical interactions between sampler surface, could improve replicability provide robust filtration.