A novel environmental DNA (eDNA) metabarcoding system is revolutionizing the way reef-building corals are identified. Developed in 2025, the Scleractinian Environmental DNA Metabarcoding (Scl-eDNA-M) system can precisely detect 83 of the 85 known genera of reef-building corals in Japan, enabling effective monitoring without the need for divers.
Researchers from the Okinawa Institute of Science and Technology (OIST) and collaborators created the Scl-eDNA-M system to address gaps in existing coral databases. The new system has already revealed previously unrecognized diversity across the Ryukyu Archipelago. This suggests that Okinawa's coastline may harbor a far greater coral diversity than previously understood.
The Scl-eDNA-M system is likely to cover most Scleractinia genera in the Pacific Ocean. Researchers are planning to expand testing beyond Japan, including locations like Hawaii. This offers a powerful solution for accurately monitoring coral populations, tracking changes over time, and anticipating future shifts in reef ecosystems.