Scanning Electron Microscopy of eDNA Collection Materials
The SEM images displayed how biological matter was adhered to the surface of all material (Fig.6) and did not appear entrapped or bound in any consistent manner. These images also revealed the diversity in size and structure of biological matter found on the materials. For example, a ‘slick’ of biological material can be seen on some materials (see Fig.6 cellulose and chitosan – 3%) while others contain small, rounded particles of biological material (see Fig. 6 espun, cotton and hemp) or larger particles with irregular shapes that have a crystalline appearance or extremely smooth surface, consistent with inorganic materials and debris like salt crystals and sediment (see Fig.6 sponge – active carbon).