GO DEEPMethods and Validation
Laboratory methods for Wilderlab metabarcoding panels
Published: July 10, 2026 • Version 2.3.0This technical note details the laboratory methods used across Wilderlab’s eDNA metabarcoding analysis panels. It covers the complete workflow, from sample collection methods and preservation through DNA extraction, PCR amplification, sequencing and taxonomic identification. The document also outlines quality control procedures, bioinformatic analysis and reporting thresholds. Intended as a reference for researchers, scientists and other technical users, it supports the interpretation, documentation and reproducibility of eDNA biodiversity results, providing transparency around Wilderlab’s laboratory methods.
ISO/IEC 17025:2017 accreditation
Initial DATED: December 5, 2024 • number 1470Wilderlab is accredited ISO/IEC 17025, the international standard for testing and calibration laboratories. It sets out requirements for the competence, impartiality, and consistent operation of laboratories, ensuring the accuracy and reliability of their testing and calibration results.
The scope of accreditation is 1.62 Molecular Biology: Next Generation Sequencing, including Preparation, Sequencing, Bioinformatics
NIWA Environmental DNA guidelines and field protocols for lotic systems
published: December 2023 • REPORT: 2023279HNNew Zealand’s National Institute of Water & Atmospheric Research (NIWA) produced guideline which can be be viewed on their website. Prepared by Michele Melchior and Cindy Baker.
Developed with guidance from the Environmental DNA Working Group, a consortium of freshwater experts from New Zealand regional councils, Ministry for the Environment, Department of Conservation, NIWA, University of Waikato and Wilderlab. It focuses primarily on protocols for sampling fish and macroinvertebrates, where comprehensive reference libraries and validated field trials exist.
Intercouncil eDNA trial and 6-replicate optimization
August 2024 • Version 1.1.1New Zealand’s regional councils collaborated on a high replicate, nation-wide eDNA trial with the primary goals to determine the optimal sample replication number and filtration volume for monitoring fish and macroinvertebrate populations as a means to explore the potential application of eDNA alongside regular biomonitoring activities.
Testing showed that the point of diminishing returns on average sits between 5-7 sample replicates. The trial also found no significant difference between the standard 1L versus the boosted 2L sampling method.