The international partners of the Network for the Preservation of Sturgeon and for the Sustainability of the Black Sea Basin Ecosystem (SturNET) have successfully completed the initial phase of their field work, collecting water samples from strategic points along the Black Sea coast and its major tributaries.

This important step in the project involved the use of advanced environmental DNA (eDNA) techniques — a modern, non-invasive method that allows scientists to detect traces of genetic material shed by sturgeons into the water, without disturbing the animals themselves.

Using sterile protocols, field teams filtered water samples from rivers and coastal waters to capture fragments of sturgeon DNA. These samples have now been sent to specialized partner laboratories where DNA analysis is underway. The goal: to determine the presence and distribution of endangered sturgeon species in the region with high precision.

What Is eDNA and Why Is It Important?

Environmental DNA (eDNA) refers to genetic material collected from environmental sources like soil, water, or air, rather than directly from an organism. In this case, water samples from the Black Sea Basin serve as a natural reservoir of DNA left behind by sturgeons through skin cells, mucus, or other biological material.

This method offers several key benefits:

• Non-invasive: It does not require direct interaction with the species, reducing stress and potential harm to these critically endangered fish.
• Efficient: Field collection is faster and often more comprehensive than traditional survey methods.
• Highly accurate: eDNA can detect even small traces of DNA, making it ideal for monitoring rare or elusive species.

Supporting Conservation through Science

The use of eDNA technology in the SturNET project reflects a growing trend in environmental science — applying innovative tools to gain deeper insights into ecosystem health and biodiversity. By identifying where sturgeons are still present, the project aims to strengthen regional conservation efforts, guide protective policies, and raise awareness about the urgent need to preserve these ancient and iconic fish.

As laboratory analysis progresses, the SturNET team looks forward to sharing further updates and engaging with stakeholders committed to the sustainable future of the Black Sea Basin.