2026/02/11 - 11:37 AM23/Sha’ban/1447 - 14:37
Was this page useful?
0 % of users said yes from 0 feedbacks.
Please tell us why(you can select multiple options)
The Department of Biology at the Faculty of Science, University of Tabuk, participated in a scientific symposium as part of the 2026 Scientific Innovation Excellence Series, organized by the Faculty’s Scientific Research Unit. The symposium, titled “Environmental DNA (eDNA) and Its Role in Preserving Biodiversity,” was delivered by Professor Yahya Saleh Mohammed Al-awthan, Professor of Physiology in the Department of Biology, on Tuesday, February 10, 2026, at the Faculty of Science seminar hall.
During the symposium, Professor Al-awthan introduced the concept of environmental DNA (eDNA), which refers to genetic material shed by living organisms into their surrounding environments—such as water, soil or air—without the need to directly observe or capture the organisms themselves. He reviewed modern molecular techniques used to collect and analyze eDNA samples, highlighting their effectiveness in detecting species presence and tracking geographical distribution.
The presentation emphasized the scientific and practical importance of eDNA technology in biodiversity monitoring, detecting rare and endangered species, and tracking invasive species, as well as its role in supporting ecosystem conservation through indirect, efficient, and cost-effective approaches.
Professor Al-awthan also highlighted one of the key outcomes of the joint research collaboration between the King Salman bin Abdulaziz Royal Reserve and the University of Tabuk, which resulted in a scientific publication in the journal Life at the end of 2024. This achievement reflects the significance of research partnerships in addressing environmental challenges and advancing applied scientific research.