'Aerial metagenomics' best refers to which one of the following situations?
- ACollecting DNA samples from air in a habitat at one goCorrect
- BUnderstanding the genetic makeup of avian species of a habitat
- CUsing air-borne devices to collect blood samples from moving animals
- DSending drones to inaccessible areas to collect plant and animal samples from land surfaces and water bodies
Explanation
'Aerial metagenomics' best refers to: Collecting DNA samples from air in a habitat at one go.
Let's break down the term:
Metagenomics: This is the study of genetic material (DNA and RNA) recovered directly from environmental samples, without the need for culturing individual organisms. It allows scientists to analyze the collective genomes of entire microbial communities and other organisms present in a sample. Aerial: This refers to something existing, happening, or carried out in the air. Therefore, 'aerial metagenomics' involves collecting air samples and then extracting and analyzing the DNA present in those samples. This can include DNA from airborne microbes (bacteria, fungi, viruses), pollen, spores, animal dander, insect fragments, and other biological aerosols, providing insights into the biodiversity and composition of life forms within a given habitat or geographical area without directly sampling the organisms themselves.
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