Environmental Genomics

Environmental genomics is the study of how all the genetic material (DNA) of living organisms in a specific environment interacts and functions together. It involves analyzing the collective genes of microorganisms, plants, and animals present in a habitat—like soil, water, or air—using advanced DNA sequencing. This helps scientists understand biodiversity, how organisms adapt to their environment, and how ecosystems respond to changes or threats, without needing to grow or isolate individual species. Essentially, environmental genomics provides a comprehensive picture of life's genetic diversity and its role in maintaining healthy, resilient ecosystems.