Luka Gruse

My research focuses on environmental DNA (eDNA) as a non-invasive molecular monitoring tool to assess biodiversity in marine ecosystems and protected areas. By analyzing genetic material shed by organisms into the environment, eDNA enables the detection of species without direct observation or capture. This approach enhances biodiversity assessments, supports conservation efforts, and improves management strategies for marine protected areas. My work explores eDNA's applications in monitoring species distributions, detecting rare or invasive species, and evaluating ecosystem health. By refining eDNA methodologies, I aim to contribute to more effective, scalable, and less intrusive marine biodiversity monitoring solutions.

My current projects focus on assessing and describing biodiversity in a marine protected area (MPA) in the North Sea using environmental DNA (eDNA). In collaboration with the Bundesamt für Naturschutz (BfN), I analyze genetic material from water samples to detect species presence of and monitor ecosystem health. Additionally, I am evaluating the effectiveness of eDNA as a tool for biodiversity assessments. This research focuses on non-commercial species and aims to refine eDNA methodologies for marine conservation, providing a cost-effective and non-invasive approach to monitoring species diversity and distribution in protected areas. My work aspires to improve conservation strategies and future marine management decisions.