OMNIeDNA

Open, Modular, Non-invasive, In-situ eDNA

The OMNIeDNA TORRENT river sampler collecting aquatic environmental DNA to monitor local river biodiversity. Video by Patrick Nichols

Biodiversity Research & Monitoring

The versatile 3D-printed eDNA sampler to maximize detection and minimize complexity

The OMNIeDNA sampler is a modular environmental DNA (eDNA) concentration system built around a standard 50 mm cotton swab pad secured within a threaded connection ring. By placing this simple, low-cost membrane at the point of water entry, the OMNIeDNA filter system creates a consistent, focused filtration interface that works across virtually any water sampling scenario. Yes, you can also use more traditional filter membranes (48-52 mm diameter) if you feel so inclined!

Whether deployed passively or with minimal active force, the system directs water through the cotton membrane, capturing cellular material and extracellular DNA efficiently on a substrate that is both widely available and easily processed for downstream DNA extraction. The threaded ring architecture allows users to adapt the same filtration core to a wide range of sampling containers, flow conditions, or collection methods, making affordable ecosystem-wide surveying accessible in diverse environments. The OMNIeDNA filter system is an inexpensive tool that puts the power of eDNA sampling into the hands of non-specialist users. Simple materials, limitless adaptability.

Learn more!

Making eDNA biomonitoring more accessible…

By collecting and analyzing traces of genetic material left behind in the water, we can detect species without ever seeing them. However, even eDNA collection often relies on complex filtration, where large volumes of water are pumped through filters, a process that’s equipment-intensive, time-consuming, and difficult to scale. We are simplifying eDNA methods to make them easier for communities to monitor habitats affected by environmental change and degradation.

For instance, we’re testing open-source 3D-printed sampler in Finnish rivers. Simple, efficient, and designed for anyone to use… we’re democratizing eDNA biomonitoring from the Baltic to boreal streams.

The OMNIeDNA CANOPY rain sampler collecting tree through-fall environmental DNA for monitoring local forest biodiversity. Video by Patrick Nichols

Set up a tarp in the forest, catch rain running off the canopy, collect the throughfall with our 3D-printed sampler. Simple as that. We’re using canopy through-fall to find out what’s living above us… just from rain washing off leaves and bark.

Keywords:

Biodiversity Monitoring