Integration of CFD and eDNA Techniques for Genetic Material Dispersion: the Case Study of Aquarium Diergaarde Blijdorp, Rotterdam

eDNA (environmental DNA) based techniques are revolutionising environmental ecology allowing non-invasive monitoring of species and assessing biodiversity without directly impacting ecosystems. This innovative approach offers a precise and efficient way to assess wildlife and ecosystem health. The thesis explores the correlation between the spatial distribution of two fish species and eDNA concentration in water. This interdisciplinary research draws on knowledge from biology, ecology, technology, and environmental conservation to better understand the complex relationships within aquatic ecosystems. Collaboratively with TU Delft, the experimental work has been conducted within a tank at the Diergaarde Blijdorp zoo in Rotterdam. Photogrammetry techniques were used to extract a three-dimensional model of the rocks inside the tank that has been integrated into the hydrodynamic simulation in order to understand the transport of genetic material. Qualitative observations of water coloured with artificial non-toxic dye were also employed for this purpose. Afterwards, fish tracking was conducted to derive a probability density function of the fish's location and water samples were collected to determine the eDNA concentration, which was then correlated with the position probability density function. This methodology is proposed as way forward for the monitoring and conservation of the aquatic environment.