Environmental DNA (eDNA) analysis was approved by Natural England (NE) in 2014 for the determination of Great Crested Newt (GCN) presence or absence. NE only accept eDNA results from laboratories participating in the proficiency testing scheme to support GCN license applications and post-development presence/absence monitoring for mitigation licences.
Order eDNA analysis FAQ's Quotations
Why choose ADAS?
Quick Turnaround
- Super fast-track to non-priority services available (minimum 2 day turn around)
- Results sent as soon as they are ready regardless of turnaround time chosen.
- We will always try to meet your requirements where possible.
Tiered Pricing System
Experience
- ADAS was involved in the peer review of the technical advice note in 2014 and we strictly adhere to this guidance.
- ADAS has CORRECTLY IDENTIFIED all ‘blind’ samples as positive, negative, or indeterminate during the 2017 and 2018 eDNA proficiency testing schemes (the 2019 scheme is underway with results expected by the end of February).
- Outside of the survey season we research other species and areas of improvement to GCN eDNA analysis, publishing several papers in peer reviewed journals (Harper et al. 2018a; Harper et al. 2018b; Rees et al. 2017; Rees et al. 2015; Rees et al. 2014a; Rees et al. 2014b).
- Training in eDNA sampling and other ecology advice can be provided by our in house ecologists, please email ecology@adas.co.uk
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Related pages:
Watch as Jo Graham demonstrates how a water sample for eDNA testing is collected.
If you do an eDNA test for GCN out of season you cannot use the results to support absence of newts during planning applications nor for licensing purposes.
After analysis your sample (anonymised) may be used in further laboratory research to develop tests for the monitoring of other species within the GCN pond ecosystem.