eDNA and traditional surveys combined

At TerraLab, we’re committed to collecting ecological data that is objective, reliable and transparent. That’s why we offer environmental DNA (eDNA) metabarcoding, giving our clients access to one of the most powerful emerging tools for biodiversity assessment. eDNA sampling allows us to detect the genetic traces that organisms leave behind in water, soil or sediment. Combined with our ecological survey expertise, it provides a more complete picture of biodiversity to support conservation, compliance and land management decisions.

Whether your project involves a biodiversity assessment, statutory approvals, or ongoing monitoring, we can integrate eDNA into the workflow to add a new level of scientific rigour. Our consultants pair this technology with field surveys, policy knowledge and clear reporting so you can make sound, defensible decisions.

eDNA Services include:

  • Standalone eDNA sampling and rapid ecological assessment – for a rapid, cost-effective snapshot of species present at a site ($450 + GST + travel).

  • Integrated eDNA and ecological surveys – included at no extra cost with all relavent flora and fauna assessments.

  • Concise reporting – with total taxa detected, summary of key groups, and identification of any rare or threatened species.

Applications:

  • Baseline biodiversity surveys

  • Detection of cryptic, rare or low-density species

  • Early detection of environmental weeds and invasive fauna

  • Supporting EPBC and FFG Act assessments

  • Strengthening compliance and monitoring programs

By ensuring data integrity from sampling to reporting, and by combining eDNA with ecological expertise, TerraLab provides land managers, councils and organisations with the clearest possible picture of the species their land supports.

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Project Examples

EDNA and ecological assessment

Objective:

To trial the integration of eDNA metabarcoding with a rapid ecological survey, providing a comprehensive biodiversity assessment of the Powlett River at Outtrim, South Gippsland.

Approach:

TerraLab collected an eDNA water sample from the Powlett River following less than 1 mm of rainfall in the preceding 24 hours. Due to high turbidity, only 100 mL of water could be filtered, short of the 1000 mL target. The sample was analysed using broad-spectrum metabarcoding, which detected 295 taxa across diverse life forms. In parallel, an ecologist conducted a 15-minute survey within a 50 m radius, recording 19 flora and fauna taxa. All results were reviewed against EPBC Act and FFG Act threatened species lists.

Result:

The eDNA analysis revealed cryptic and overlooked species including Arum lily, duckweed and native Glyceria grass, while the ecological survey identified the vulnerable Strzelecki Gum (Eucalyptus strzeleckii), which the eDNA result had only resolved to genus level. Only one of the 19 species observed by the ecologist appeared in the eDNA dataset, reflecting the small sample volume and database limitations. When combined, the two methods produced a total of 314 taxa, providing a far more complete biodiversity picture than either method alone. This case study demonstrates the value of pairing eDNA with ecological expertise to deliver results that are rapid, robust and defensible.

Make your next assessment easier — speak with our ecological consultants today.

What We Offer:

TerraLab provides integrated eDNA and ecological services that give clients a clearer understanding of biodiversity on their land. By combining cutting-edge molecular analysis with field-based expertise, we help organisations meet compliance requirements, support conservation outcomes, and make better-informed management decisions.

eDNA sampling and analysis

  • Standalone eDNA sampling and lab analysis for rapid biodiversity assessments

  • Inclusion of broad-spectrum metabarcoding with all flora and fauna surveys

  • Concise reporting summarising taxa detected, grouped by major life forms, with key findings highlighted

Ecology and edna integration

  • Combined surveys that capture both visible species and cryptic or rare taxa

  • Cross-checking of all detected flora and fauna against EPBC Act and FFG Act threatened species lists

  • Practical advice on interpreting eDNA results and integrating them with ecological survey outcomes

Applications for Land Managers & Developers

  • Baseline biodiversity surveys to inform planning and approvals

  • Detection of threatened or invasive species to guide management action

  • Strengthening environmental impact assessments, monitoring, and compliance reporting

  • Supporting statutory requirements under State and Federal legislation

TRUSTED EXPERTISE

We work with trusted partners to deliver multi-disciplinary environmental solutions including:

Our consultants work to nationally recognised standards, ensuring robust data collection, chain of custody for eDNA samples, and defensible reporting. Through our established partner network we can also coordinate complementary services such as aquatic ecology, cultural heritage, and environmental engineering, providing clients with a seamless, multi-disciplinary solution.

Spatial ecology