Perfect 100% score yet again for ADAS in GCN eDNA proficiency testing in 2022
For the sixth GCN eDNA testing season in a row, ADAS has again correctly identified 100% of blinded eDNA samples in the 2022 GCN eDNA proficiency test
Six out of seven eDNA labs taking part identified all blinded samples correctly. Proficiency testing is carried out independently every year to provide evidence of the quality of eDNA analysis offered by the different UK eDNA testing labs.
How proficiency testing is carried out
Ten different unknown samples prepared by FAPAS and were sent to each lab for analysis. eDNA testing labs provided their own eDNA testing kits so that any level of sample inhibition and degradation could also be monitored.
Lab names are anonymised so we do not know the names of other companies taking part.
| A | B | C | D | E | F | G | H | I | J | |
| Neg, not inhibited | Inhibited | Neg, not inhibited | Low positive, not inhibited | Low positive, not inhibited | Negative, not inhibited | Negative, not inhibited | Low positive, not inhibited | Medium positive, not inhibited | Inhibited | % Correct |
| 0/12 n | 0/12 i | 0/12 n | 2/12 n | 2/12 n | 0/12 n | 0/12 n | 3/12 n | 10/12 n | 0/12 i | 100% |
n: Sample recorded as not inhibited
i: Sample recorded as inhibited
FAPAS, who oversee the proficiency testing scheme, score results as ‘satisfactory’ if both the PCR result is correct and whether inhibition or not is recorded as expected.
Translating the results
The presence/absence of an eDNA detection within pond water samples gives a reliable indication of recent GCN presence within that waterbody.
ADAS correctly identified all 10 samples that included samples containing different levels of GCN eDNA (low medium and high), in addition to identifying samples that had been deliberately inhibited .
In addition to determining the presence of eDNA at different concentrations, it is vital that inhibited and or degraded samples are identified as these may incorrectly score a waterbody as negative for GCN even if they are actually present. Much of the success (a positive or negative result) of an eDNA test will depend on the quality of the water sample that is provided. Whilst we do our best to resolve results recorded as indeterminate (where samples are inhibited or are extensively degraded) we won’t always be able to determine a result from a poor water sample (generally one contaminated with high amounts of organic material, sediment, etc.). It’s always important to take a good sample to achieve a conclusive result – see our sampling guidance video for more information.
Watch our sampling guidance videoFirst for eDNA analysis six years running
Dr. Ben Maddison, Head of ADAS Biotechnology said
“Since the proficiency scheme started back in 2017, we’ve scored 100% in every proficiency test. Our accuracy, speed and consistency makes us the ideal partner for anyone looking to carry out reliable bulk eDNA testing this year.”
We offer super fast-track to non-priority services (2, 5, 10 day, or 1 month turn-around time). We will send results as soon as they are ready, regardless of turnaround time chosen.
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