COOOL delivers field and analytical services supporting the study of biological populations (aquatic, terrestrial, semi-aquatic). From sample collection to environmental and genetic analyses, we provide reliable, evidence-based insights that inform sustainable fisheries and ecosystem monitoring.
SAMPLING AND FIELD PROGRAMS
Our team designs and implements customized sampling programs to support diverse research and management goals. This includes training field staff, observers, and fishers in practical, standardized collection protocols. We also provide full-service sample acquisition and processing, to ensure quality and traceability.
Example applications include the FLOPPED and TALE project sampling network and conducting observer training under the Southern Ocean Fisheries Agreement (SIOFA) RFMO. Learn more on our Projects page.
SPECIES IDENTIFICATION
We integrate various methods to identify and track species. Our services include tissue-based molecular analyses that support species distribution studies, seafood labeling verification, and the correction of species misidentifications. Environmental DNA (eDNA) samples can also be processed to detect and monitor key species of interest.
Recent applications include work with Reunion Island’s major seaport (GPMDLR) for invasive and exotic species detection, and contributions to the FLOPPED and TALE programs to refine assessments of large pelagic fisheries.
BIOLOGICAL PARAMETER ASSESSMENT
We apply genetic and epigenetic tools to determine key life-history parameters such as age, sex, length, and weight through the analysis of otoliths, molecular markers, and calibrated epigenetic clocks. These data are integrated with biometric information to provide comprehensive biological profiles.
Our expertise contributes to regional initiatives such as the Indian Ocean Tuna Commission (IOTC) programs on tuna and billfish life histories, and collaborative projects with Ifremer and local fishers developing epigenetic techniques for fish stock assessment during the POPSICLE project.
POPULATION DISCRIMINATION & SPECIES ABUNDANCE ESTIMATES
Applying high-resolution molecular markers, we assess population structure and connectivity, and estimate breeding population size through the Close-Kin Mark–Recapture (CKMR) method. Our expertise lies in large pelagic fish and coral reef species, but is applicable across aquatic, semi-aquatic, and terrestrial taxa.
These analyses are detailed in ICES Journal of Marine Sciences, and also support the definition of management units for transboundary fisheries as demonstrated through our involvement with the SIOFA-TOP projects.
ENVIRONMENTAL MONITORING
Integrated monitoring of aquatic habitats is achieved through environmental DNA (eDNA) biodiversity surveys via manual collections or Unmanned Surface Vehicle (USV)-based collection. We combine eDNA data with aerial drone imagery and measurements of local environmental conditions to produce comprehensive ecosystem-level assessments.
These methods have been successfully applied in the Plancha and pPump-It projects, with results published in Scientific Data, Ocean Engineering, and Frontiers in Marine Sciences, and featured on the Seatizen Monitoring web platform for marine habitat mapping.
SERVICE STRUCTURE AND PRICING
We offer a transparent, modular service structure and pricing designed to fit a wide range of project needs. Our approaches is flexible and cost-effective, with pricing based on sample and environmental complexity, monitoring duration, and selected service components. A variety of sample types are accepted, including partially degraded tissue and environmental material.