Microbial source tracking: finding the source behind fecal contamination
A GMGI eDNA Service Case Study
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The Challenge
Elevated fecal indicator bacteria can trigger shellfish harvest closures and beach advisories — but a high bacterial count alone doesn’t reveal where the contamination came from. Human wastewater can pose a significant public health concern, while bacteria originating from birds, dogs, wildlife, or other non-human sources may present a very reduced level of risk.
The GMGI Approach
GMGI is working with state, federal, and municipal partners to add another layer of information to traditional water-quality monitoring. Refining targeted molecular assays on droplet digital PCR (ddPCR), our scientists can detect genetic markers associated with different sources of fecal contamination.
The Impact
Microbial source tracking can help agencies and municipalities investigate whether contamination is associated with human sewage or other sources. This additional information can support more informed management decisions, protect public health, and help communities better understand contamination events that can lead to shellfish harvest closures and beach advisories.
GMGI develops the molecular approach around the specific management question — not simply a standard, one-size-fits-all test.