Environment and Ecology
2023
Biodiversity
‘Aerial metagenomics’ best refers to which one of the following situations?
B.Understanding the genetic makeup of avian species of a habitat
C.Using air-bome devices to collect blood samples from moving animals
A.Collecting DNA samples from air in a habitat at one go
D.Sending drones to inaccessible areas to collect plant and animal samples from land surfaces and water bodies
Correct Answer: Option A
Metagenomics (also known as environmental or community genomics) involves the genomic analysis of microorganisms through direct extraction and cloning of DNA from a microbial community.
This approach allows for sampling an entire habitat at once. Researchers have demonstrated that environmental DNA (e-DNA) can identify and monitor terrestrial animals. Animals release DNA into the environment through breath, saliva, fur, or feces, which are then collected as e-DNA samples.
Therefore, collecting DNA samples from the air in a habitat in one go best describes aerial metagenomics.
Hence, option A is correct.
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