Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What do you mean, community science project?

A: Community science is when amateur scientists 'do some science'. Often this means that volunteers help to collect data, or interpret it (e.g. Zooniverse), in experiments that have been preconceived by professional scientists. While this is great, a goal of DNA divers is to allow volunteers to drive the research questions, come up with how they may answer them, and then go collect the data. All of these steps are part of doing science. Our volunteers will get advice and support from our marine biology team, and the marine biology team will coordinate the volunteer dives for data collection. We want our volunteers to feel empowered to ask their own questions. After all, isn't this the best way to ensure that science remains relevant to people? We are determined to let people get a taste for what science really is.

Q: What is a metaprobe?

A: A metaprobe is a device that is designed to collect DNA from an aquatic environment. DNA is all around us, and in the ocean, as fish swim, poo and mate, they leave behind DNA traces. In nature, DNA in trace amounts is called environmental DNA or ‘eDNA’ shorthand. Working with fisherman, scientists originally made metaprobes to place into commercial fishing nets. They wanted to see if the metaprobe could be used to identify the fish being caught in the net, without having to visually identify the catch. And it was a success! Now, as DNA divers, we will use the metaprobe to detect rare or elusive fish, sharks and mammals that unbeknownst to us, may be living at our dive sites.


We will be adding FAQs as we receive them! Please contact us below with any questions.