Scientists Gearing Up For Loch Ness Monster DNA Hunt
OutdoorHub Reporters 05.23.18
Scientists intend on taking a fresh new approach, involving a full-fledged DNA hunt, to determine if the Loch Ness monster truly exists.
With the use of environmental DNA, a team of scientists plan to search the waters of Loch Ness in Scotland next month hoping to come across actual DNA fragments left behind by the fabled creature.
The use of eDNA is already a tried-and-true method used by marine biologists to monitor and locate animals like whales and sharks.
According to Reuters, team spokesman Professor Neil Gemmell of the University of Otago in New Zealand said, “Whenever a creature moves through its environment, it leaves behind tiny fragments of DNA from skin, scales, feathers, fur, feces and urine. This DNA can be captured, sequenced and then used to identify that creature by comparing the sequence obtained to large databases of known genetic sequences from hundreds of thousands of different organisms.”
Gemmell did note however, that he’d be surprised to find any sort of DNA sequences similar to a supposed extinct marine reptile, but he, along with every other conspiracy theorist, is eager to see what the team finds.
