Zinto launches novel early warning system to detect high impact Invasive Aquatic Species in Ireland using Environmental DNA (eDNA)

Dublin, Ireland – [May 14, 2025] – Zinto Labs, an Irish genomics solutions company, has launched an innovative trial to develop and validate a highly sensitive early warning system for detecting invasive aquatic species in Irish waters. The initiative is supported by Greenman Group and the Irish National Biodiversity Data Centre and leverages environmental DNA (eDNA) technology to monitor the presence of high-risk invasive species, including the Chinese mitten crab, coypu, chub, and blue crab. The project launch coincides with Ireland’s Invasive Species Week, which aims to raise awareness of invasive alien species that can threaten local environments.

Ireland’s aquatic ecosystems face increasing threats from invasive species, which can disrupt native biodiversity, alter habitats, and cause significant economic damage. Traditional detection methods can be time-consuming, costly and labour-intensive, often identifying invasive populations only after they have become well established. By utilizing eDNA sampling techniques, this approach will offer a faster, lower cost, non-invasive, and highly sensitive solution to early detection, allowing for early and proactive conservation and management efforts.

Environmental DNA (eDNA) is the trace genetic material shed by all organisms into their surroundings, such as water, soil, or air. By collecting and analyzing water samples for DNA left behind by specific target species, scientists can detect the presence of invasive species even at very low population levels, providing an early and non-invasive method for monitoring and mitigating ecological threats before they become widespread. The technology has only recently become feasible due to significant advances in genomics capabilities and processing power. Zinto Labs is pioneering the technology in this sector in Ireland, following 15-years of genomics based services in animal industries.

“Our goal is to develop a robust, scalable system that enables early intervention and mitigation of invasive species before they cause significant ecological and economic harm,” said Donal Ryan, CEO at Zinto Labs. “eDNA offers game-changing capabilities for monitoring biodiversity, and we are excited to lead this initiative in Ireland.”

The Greenman Group, an Irish investment firm with a strong focus on environmentally sustainable investments, is funding the initiative as part of its commitment to environmental protection and biodiversity conservation. “This pilot aligns with our vision of investing in sustainable and innovative solutions that safeguard natural ecosystems,” said John Wilkinson, CEO at Greenman Group. “Supporting cutting-edge research like this is crucial for building resilient and sustainable environments for future generations.”

The Irish National Biodiversity Data Centre, who play a vital role in biodiversity monitoring and data collection in Ireland, are supporting the project, providing expert resources in terms of data integration, ecology and ecosystem management.

The pilot will be conducted across select locations in Ireland, with results helping to inform future large-scale monitoring programs.

An eDNA-based early warning system could revolutionize how invasive species are monitored and subsequently managed, setting a new standard for biodiversity conservation efforts in Ireland and beyond.

ABOUT ZINTO LABS: Zinto Labs is an award-winning biodiversity monitoring and genomics laboratory business, headquartered in Dublin, Ireland. With a customer focused approach, the Zinto Labs team of scientists use advanced genomic technologies to develop and deliver solutions to complex environmental and animal challenges and support large corporates to comply with new Naturebased reporting regulations. Zinto Labs’ clients include regulators, large corporates, not-for-profits, conservation bodies, research institutions and municipalities across Europe, North America, Australia and Asia. Zinto means 'All Things' in the African Xhosa language, reflecting the critical importance of diversity in nature. See: www.zinto.com

ABOUT THE GREENMAN GROUP: The Greenman Group is a leading European investment management and real estate platform headquartered in Dublin, Ireland, with over €1.5 billion in assets under management. It specialises in sustainable investment strategies. One of its flagship initiatives, Growing Further, supports innovation in the grocery retail supply chain and related environmental systems by backing high-impact ideas with funding, pilot opportunities, and industry partnerships.

ABOUT IRISH NATIONAL BIODIVERSITY DATA CENTRE: The National Biodiversity Data Centre, based in Waterford, Ireland, is a national organisation tasked with the collection, collation, management, and dissemination of data on Ireland’s biological diversity. Established in 2007, the Centre works in partnership with government, research bodies, NGOs, and citizen scientists to enhance knowledge and understanding of Ireland’s biodiversity. By supporting evidence-based decision-making, the Centre plays a vital role in national conservation planning and biodiversity policy development.
See: www.biodiversityireland.ie