BARCODING SWAB KIT

For use in all countries

• All kit users must familiarize themselves with data requirements set out in the Sample Manifest, prior to sampling.
  
• Please ensure all information sent to NatureMetrics is in English.
  
• Datasheets must be completed using a pencil only.
• Kits should be used within one year.

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KIT BACKGROUND

WHAT IS DNA BARCODING?

DNA barcoding is a technique used to identify the species to which a specimen belongs, using the genetic sequence of a conserved gene or genes. The genetic sequence of suitable genes is similar enough within a species but different enough between species to allow for consistent and confident identification. Such genetic sequences are often called DNA barcodes.

The identification efficiency of different DNA barcodes varies between taxonomic groups, and NatureMetrics uses the most effective barcoding regions for each taxonomic group of interest.

WHAT TYPES OF SPECIMENS CAN BE SWABBED?

NatureMetrics DNA Barcoding Kits are optimized for the non-invasive collection of DNA from specimens which require identification. It does not require euthanasia and can also be used on dead specimens that have been suitably stored. This kit can be used to collect DNA from the following taxonomic groups:

Note: In some instances, there is not sufficient differentiation of barcoding sequences between species to provide a specimen identification to species level. In such instances, the sample will be identified to the lowest possible taxonomic rank (genus, family, etc.)

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YOU WILL NEED

• Device to capture GPS coordinates (lat / long) (e.g. GPS capable     smartphone or standalone GPS device)
• Pencil (to complete the datasheet)

More than one person using the kit? Please purchase extra gloves.
To minimize waste we provide one pair of gloves per kit. If two or more people will be handling the contents of the kit and collecting an eDNA sample, you will need to purchase additional pairs of gloves – enough for one pair of gloves for each individual handling the kit. We recommend purchasing medical-grade nitrile gloves.

COLLECTING SWAB SAMPLES

Once a suitable specimen has been obtained, following these steps will allow for the quick and easy collection of a high-quality DNA sample.

1. Open the kit bag. Kits should be used one at a time to minimize contamination between samples. Do not open more than one kit at a time, especially if kits are to be used at different sampling locations. Put on gloves provided to minimize the risk of contaminating the specimen with your own DNA or with DNA from other specimens.

2. Position the specimen carefully to avoid causing injury.

3. Remove one of the swabs from the bag, twist the lid on the tube to break the seal and then draw the shaft out of the tube. It is important that the swab does not come into contact with anything other than the specimen.

4. For fish: Gently rub the swab 15 times along the body of the specimen from the nostril area to tail, just above the lateral (centre) line, rotating the swab while taking the sample.

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5. Return the swab to the tube and push cap on firmly.

6. Repeat sample collection on the same specimen using the second swab.

7. Place collected swabs into the specimen safety bag. Store the swabs at room temperature, away from direct sunlight and moisture prior to shipping.

Note: Swabbing procedure varies depending on the taxonomic group being sampled.

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RETURNING YOUR SAMPLES

Once you have collected your sample, follow our guidelines below to safely transport your sample to the NatureMetrics laboratory.

1. Complete the sampling datasheet using a pencil (do not use pen as ink can easily run, to the point where it becomes unreadable).

2. Place the specimen swabs and sampling datasheet inside the bag that the kit contents arrived in.

3. Complete the sample manifest, which was attached to the email confirming shipping of your kits. Please record your sampling data on paper and on the sample manifest so there is a physical and electronic copy of your data.

4. For sample returns, visit our customer support desk here. Use the Logistics Request form to upload your completed sample manifest and book your sample return. NatureMetrics is fully compliant with current legislation on the transport of biological material and our operations team are on hand to ensure that all return shipments meet the required specification. We are only able to analyze samples that are returned using the correct NatureMetrics logistics procedure.

Note: Swabs should be received back at the lab within 2 weeks of sample collection. If this is not possible then we recommend freezing the swabs as soon as possible after sample collection until the samples are posted to NatureMetrics. Cold shipping is not required.

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PACKAGING NOTES AND QUICK LINKS

• Return your samples using the box that kits were sent in, where possible.
• If using an alternative box, ensure that it is in good condition and remove any old labels.
• Avoid excess spacing by adding cushioning material (e.g. bubble wrap, newspaper) to avoid the product shifting inside the box.
• Use good quality sealing tape and seal along box edges in a H pattern.
• The only essential thing to send back to us is the specimen bag containing the filter and the sampling datasheet. However, all kit contents can be sent back to NatureMetrics for recycling.

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Disclaimer: Safe sample collection is the responsibility of the Client. NatureMetrics accepts no liability associated with the use of the kits and sample collection. The Client is solely responsible for the quality of the samples and the representativeness of the samples received by NatureMetrics. The information contained within the Final Report provided by NatureMetrics to the Client is not intended to be advisory, it is informational. Interpretation and decisions are the sole responsibility of the Client. NatureMetrics does not accept any liability whatsoever for any reliance placed on any information contained within, or any use that may be made of, the Final Report by the Client. Please read the full limitation of liability statement in the Terms and Conditions.