Scientists have been staking out a forest in Montana for an animal that's notoriously tricky to find. Camera traps haven't offered definitive evidence, and experts can't identify its tracks with certainty. But within the past decades, researchers have developed methods that can detect even the most elusive species. So how does it work? Hélène Morlon & Anna Papadopoulou dig into DNA metabarcoding. [Directed by Blok Magnaye, narrated by Bethany Cutmore-Scott, music by Cem Misirlioglu and Alex Chumak].

Hélène Morlon and Anna Papadopoulou: How we can detect pretty much anything

How we can detect pretty much anything

DNA metabarcoding revolutionizes species detection, identifying elusive animals like the Canada lynx without a physical trace.

By decoding DNA from ancient permafrost, scientists unlock secrets of extinct species, offering insights for current climate challenges.

DNA metabarcoding reveals elusive species like the Canada lynx without direct sightings, transforming biodiversity monitoring.