Great Crested Newt eDNA testing services.
A reliable and trusted service from one of the UK’s largest forensic DNA companies and Natural England’s sole appointed testing laboratory
Choose Cellmark for your testing
Reliable Results
We are delighted to announce that Cellmark again achieved a perfect score in the 2023 FAPAS Great Crested Newt (GCN) eDNA proficiency testing scheme.
Rapid Turnaround
We offer a range of GCN environmental DNA (eDNA) testing services for you - 10 day, 5 day, 2 day turnaround and our fastest Next Day express service.
Competitive Pricing
We've held last year's prices for the 2023 season! Buy a testing kit online today or call us to find out about our special deals for larger testing volumes and mixed turnaround time orders.
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Order your Great Crested Newt eDNA Testing Kits
10 Day Service*For orders of 20 kits or more. Regular prices per kit - 10 day £165, 5 day £235 and 2 day £290 +VAT
Visit our shop and buy your kits online or call our friendly customer services team (for free) to discuss your testing requirements, get a quote or place an order. You can also email us at edna@cellmark.co.uk with any enquiries. Our team are available from 8.30 am to 6.00 pm every weekday (and until 7.00pm every Monday).
All our prices include the following as standard:
GCN eDNA Sampling Kit
Courier kit delivery
Full analytical report
Kit Ordering and delivery FAQs
Please note, the service turnaround is measured in working days and calculated from the date we receive the sample at our laboratory.
What is eDNA?
Environmental DNA or eDNA is genetic material given off by an organism into its environment. In the case of great crested newts, the eDNA samples are collected from bodies of water. This DNA can persist for a number of weeks, allowing us to test for its presence in water samples. Most frequently ponds are surveyed during the great crested newt breeding season.
Why is testing performed?
Great crested newts (GCN; Triturus cristatus) are a protected species in the UK. Deliberately capturing, killing, disturbing or injuring great crested newts at any life stage and damaging, destroying or obstructing access to a breeding or resting place, are prohibited by law. eDNA testing is a rapid and effective way to test for the presence or absence of great crested newts.
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How do I take an eDNA sample?
Cellmark's sampling kits are designed to make your job as easy as possible - they match Natural England protocols. In our sampling video, Nicola from Cellmark, demonstrates the correct way to collect water samples for eDNA testing.
>35 yrs
Established in 1987 Cellmark pioneered the introduction of forensic DNA analysis and has built an international reputation for forensic excellence.
500+
Our diverse employee population is rich in expertise across a range of scientific disciplines. We aim to attract and retain the top talent in the industry.
1000s
Chosen and contracted by a wide range of customers including the general public, local authorities, 80% of UK police forces plus national and international government agencies.
5m+
Approaching 3 million human DNA samples and over 2.5 million animal samples DNA tested at our laboratories in the UK.
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Other testing services
Rural Crime
Cellmark utilises a broad range of casework disciplines and specialist DNA services to assist in wildlife and rural crime investigations.
Species Testing
Cellmark’s 12S rRNA mitochondrial sequencing service was developed and validated in 2011 and subsequently accredited to ISO17025.
Forensic Services
Cellmark uses a range of specialist accredited techniques to extract DNA and produce valuable DNA profiling information for our customers.
DNA Protected
DNA protected has been developed to deter dog thieves, provide dog owners with peace of mind and to help collar the criminals.
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Service excellence through science
Superior service
The skill of our science is matched by the commitment of our people to deliver a swift, responsive and high quality service for our customers. Our customer service team strive to make doing business with us as easy as possible.
Scientific excellence
Participating in the Natural England proficiency tests our assay is able to detect newt DNA even in the lowest concentrations. Across our range of services we work to exacting quality standards for technical excellence, data security and environmental responsibility.
A wealth of experience
With over 35 years’ experience of providing specialist DNA services we have a history of innovation, scientific development and analytical excellence.
