Environomics Future Science Platform

ENVIRONOMICS = environmental genomics. The Environomics Future Science Platform at CSIRO is using genomics, bioinformatics and nanotechnologies, to reinvent how we measure and monitor ecosystem health, change and threats, and find new resources in nature.

Environomics in practice

Case studies

Using bees to monitor environmental change

We are using bees to survey flowering plants and monitor changes to vegetation. This new technology is known as pollen DNA metabarcoding.

Reading nature’s DNA library

We are developing new ways to access the genomic information locked inside natural history collections.

Counting fish without looking

We’re using traces of DNA left behind in the environment to transform environmental monitoring and species detection.

How long do marine turtles live

We have discovered a deceptively simple way to estimate how long a species lives, using only its genome sequence. The results are invaluable for conservation, biosecurity and wildlife management.

Insect collection or pharmaceutical warehouse?

We are discovering the biodiversity of spider wasps in Australia. Their venoms are complex cocktails of potential new therapies for Alzheimer's, epilepsy, bacterial infections and more.

New fish ageing technique

Scientists from the Environomics FSP have developed a DNA‑based method of fish ageing that is a harmless and cost-efficient alternative to examining otoliths.

Environmental monitoring

eDNA Roadmap

A guide for marine resource managers and researchers to use environmental DNA (eDNA), a new technology, to manage sustainable use and conservation in Australian marine parks.

Perfect match: DNA library to help identify species

We’re building our National Biodiversity DNA Library to help identify and monitor species across Australia and in our surrounding waters.

Opportunities in eDNA

Environmental DNA (eDNA) is shed by plants, animals and microbes into the environment. It’s used to detect species, especially in marine environments, without needing to see or disturb them.

Revolutionising environmental monitoring using eDNA

Environmental DNA (eDNA) is a game-changer for monitoring biodiversity. New Australian/New Zealand guidelines for working with eDNA will support end-users taking up this exciting technology.