Rapid detection of agricultural pests and pathogens is essential for protecting crop yields, reducing economic losses and preventing the spread of outbreaks that can threaten food security and availbility. Early identification allows targeted management strategies to be implemented before infestations become widespread, minimizing the need for costly and broad-spectrum interventions. 

Environmental DNA (eDNA) provides a powerful tool for this purpose by enabling sensitive, non-invasive detection of pests and pathogens, directly from environmental samples. By revealing the presence of harmful organisms at low abundance and often before visible symptoms appear, eDNA supports faster, more proactive decision-making and agricultural management.