Marine Biodiversity: Bolstering Mauritius Blue Economy through DNA Technologies

The Mauritius Oceanography Institute (MOI) is forging ahead marine biodiversity conservation projects and supporting the sustainable development of the blue economy through the application of cutting-edge genetic technologies, namely DNA barcoding and environmental DNA (eDNA) monitoring.

In light of the ever-increasing importance of molecular approaches in biodiversity research, the MOI has launched a DNA-barcoding project entitled “Assessment of Marine Living Resources in the Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) of Mauritius.” The initiative combines modern genetic techniques with conventional taxonomy to improve the identification and documentation of marine species within Mauritius’ vast maritime territory.

To date, the project has successfully inventoried 186 species of market fish, 21 species of sea cucumbers, and 66 species of marine molluscs. The Institute is currently extending its research to marine crustaceans. The genetic information gathered has been compiled into the MOI’s online Marine Diversity and Genetics Databank, creating a comprehensive national reference library that supports species identification, fisheries management, biodiversity conservation, seafood traceability, and the sustainable use of marine resources.

According to the Director of the MOI, Dr Daniel Marie, the DNA-barcoding initiative has considerably strengthened the country's capacity to accurately identify marine species and has enhanced evidence-based management of marine living resources.

“The initiative has also generated critical baseline data on marine biodiversity within Mauritius’ EEZ, contributing to the protection of vulnerable species, the promotion of sustainable fisheries, and the alignment of economic development with biodiversity conservation and ecosystem resilience,” he said.

Building on the expertise and infrastructure developed through the DNA-barcoding programme, the MOI is now integrating environmental DNA (eDNA) methodologies into its marine biodiversity assessment activities, particularly under the Marine Resources Mapping Project.

Environmental DNA is an innovative and non-invasive technique that enables scientists to identify species by analysing traces of genetic material present in seawater samples. Unlike traditional survey methods that often require the capture or direct observation of organisms, eDNA can rapidly detect a wide range of species while minimising disturbance to natural habitats.

“The technology offers significant opportunities for near real-time biodiversity assessment and can facilitate the monitoring of endangered, protected and commercially important species. It also enables the identification of biodiversity hotspots and supports the monitoring of ecosystem changes across the marine environment,” Dr Marie emphasised.

The marine environment remains one of Mauritius’ most valuable natural assets, underpinning key economic sectors such as fisheries, tourism, biotechnology, pharmaceuticals and other emerging blue economy industries. Marine ecosystems also play a vital role in supporting food security, employment and livelihoods.

However, increasing pressures from pollution, habitat degradation, overexploitation of resources, invasive species and climate change are threatening marine biodiversity. Ocean warming and acidification, in particular, are accelerating ecosystem degradation and increasing the risk of species loss before they can be adequately documented.

In this context, the adoption of advanced molecular tools is expected to strengthen the country's ability to better monitor biodiversity, assess ecological responses to environmental pressures and support evidence-based decision-making. The integration of eDNA into biodiversity monitoring programmes will enhance Mauritius’ capacity to conserve its rich marine heritage, improve the resilience of marine ecosystems, and support the long-term sustainability and competitiveness of the nation's blue economy.

The MOI's ongoing initiatives align fully with Government's vision for the sustainable management of marine resources and clearly demonstrate how scientific innovation can contribute to biodiversity conservation while supporting economic growth and national development.

01 July 2026

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Topics: Technology, Maritime