Fisheries Program Chair joins 1st Environmental DNA (eDNA) Metabarcoding in Misamis Oriental

In relentless pursuit of #LifeBelowWater conservation, the Fisheries Management Area 9 hosted a series of workshop on Environmental DNA (eDNA) Metabarcoding held at Mindanao State University – Naawan Campus on March 19-21, 2024.

This 3-day workshop participated by representatives from various sectors in Area 9: Southern Leyte, Surigao Del Norte, Misamis Oriental, Lanao Del Norte, and Agusan Del Norte, provided a hands-on experience in DNA sampling and database utilization to promote biodiversity research and aquatic ecosystem conservation.

Ms. Angelica E. Gerong, Fisheries Program Chair in SLSU-Bontoc Campus shared that with our ocean being at risk of pollution, habitat degradation, and climate change, this workshop played a vital role to marine life advocates to recognize the challenges and the importance of conducting genetic research in the context of fisheries management in Area 9.

The participants of this workshop experienced a series of practical sessions on the Basic Local Alignment Search Tool (BLAST) and nucleotide alignments using the NCBI database that help creating phylogenetic trees and tracing alignments, thereby enhancing the understanding of genetic analysis. Furthermore, Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) principles and its basic workflow were also introduced.

Ms. Gerong, together with other attendees, experienced the step-by-step process of DNA extraction techniques. They were engaged to collect seawater samples in coastal areas of Naawan, which afterward underwent a filtration process and DNA extraction procedure at MSU Naawan Genetics Laboratory.

To conclude the workshop, participants learned about a data analysis tool for bioinformatics and sequences annotation called Mitofish. This database helps to understand how fish genetics work, which can be use in studying evolution, biodiversity, and even diseases.

According to Ms. Gerong, through this event she has not only gained new skills and knowledge in fisheries management, but on top of it she has also fostered a sense of community that is a gateway for future research and academic collaborations in Area 9.