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This fact sheet written by Linda Broadhurst and Andrew Young provides a glimpse of how DNA markers and forensic technology is helping us better understand remnant health and population dynamics within our temperate agricultural landscapes.

Forensic science may be a television phenomenon but increasingly it is helping scientists understand important ecological processes that occur in our natural environment. Deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) markers can be used to rapidly survey animal and plant genomes, providing valuable information for understanding genetic diseases as well as improving plant and animal breeding. They can help to identify the vast numbers of micro-organisms in soil and water samples and help to monitor ecological changes associated with pollution.