eDNA | A. Prof Paul Nevill and Joshua Kestel
Insects pollinate 75% of all agricultural crops, yet many face extinction. Discover how a ‘Star Trek’ level tech called eDNA can monitor vital insect pollinators and support global food security.
- The pollinator crisis [01:15]
- eDNA a gamechanger for biodiversity monitoring [03:09]
- Hoverfly vs honeybee in avocado pollination [05:46]
- Native bushland sustains agriculture [08:21]
- Diverse applications for eDNA [14:05]
- Merging tech with farm mechanisation [19:36]
- Cambridge calling [20:10]
Learn more
- eDNA could help protect insect pollinators of avocado flowers
- Study reveals how eDNA could bear fruit for farmers and the environment
- Small but might: eDNA amplies key role of insects in pollination
Connect with our guests
Associate Professor Paul Nevill
Paul leads the Minesite Biomonitoring with eDNA (MBioMe) research group at Curtin University. He is a molecular ecologist working on everything from soil microbes to mammals. His main interest is eDNA-based monitoring of biodiversity.
Dr Joshua Kestel
Joshua is a molecular ecologist interested in pollination and the resulting genetic consequences. He has undertaken research with the Minesite Biomonitoring with eDNA (MBioMe) research group at Curtin University, and the Department of Conservation, Biodiversity and Attractions (DBCA). He is now working at Cambridge University to further his research detecting pollinators using eDNA.
Join Curtin University
This podcast is brought to you by Curtin University. Curtin is a global university known for its commitment to making positive change happen through high-impact research, strong industry partnerships and practical teaching.
Got any questions, or suggestions for future topics?
Email thefutureof@curtin.edu.au
Social media
Transcript
Behind the scenes
Host: David Karsten
Producer: Emilia Jolakoska
Episode researcher:Zoe Taylor
Executive producers: Anita Shore and Matthew Sykes
First Nations Acknowledgement
Curtin University acknowledges all First Nations of this place we call Australia and the First Nations peoples connected with our global campuses. We are committed to working in partnership with all Custodians and Owners to strengthen and embed First Nations’ voices and perspectives in our decision-making, now and into the future.
