The University of Montpellier is launching the ADNeIA project to strengthen marine biodiversity monitoring

[Press Release] - Published on February 18, 2026 in Press Room, Scientific Appeal

The University of Montpellier has announced the official launch of the ADNeIA project (AI-optimized DNA solutions) for monitoring marine biodiversity, led scientifically by David Mouillot, Laure Velez, and Stéphanie Manel, and coordinated by the MARBEC unit and the company Spygen. The ADNeIA project, scheduled to begin operations on March 15, 2026, aims to develop new tools for monitoring marine biodiversity based on the analysis of environmental DNA using artificial intelligence, in order to better understand, protect, and manage marine ecosystems.

Supported by the ANR as part of the “Industrial Chair 2025” call for proposals, this research program has received total funding of 1.28 million euros over 48 months. The project is funded in the amount of 640,991.25 euros by the ANR, with an equivalent contribution from the partner company Spygen.

ADNeIA: An Innovative Research Project to Better Observe and Understand Marine Ecosystems

Given the growing pressures on marine environments from human activities and climate change, gaining a better understanding of biodiversity is now a major challenge. Traditional observation methods, such as dive surveys, net catches, or footage from underwater cameras, remain cumbersome, even destructive, and limited in their ability to cover vast areas over the long term for many species.

The ADNeIA project proposes an innovative approach based on combining environmental DNA and artificial intelligence to better detect marine species without impacting ecosystems. By analyzing the biological traces left by organisms in the water—in the form of environmental DNA (eDNA)—and by utilizing automated data processing tools, the project will enable a more comprehensive inventory of marine biodiversity, a better understanding of its ecological dynamics, and the ability to model its evolution. As part of this effort, ADNeIA plans to develop autonomous underwater robots capable of collecting eDNA samples, measuring environmental parameters, and mapping the seafloor—including in hard-to-reach areas such as deep canyons or offshore wind farms. The project also relies on the creation of an expanded database on marine fauna—particularly crustaceans, which remain poorly documented—as well as the development of advanced analytical tools and a digital visualization platform for public and private stakeholders.

Led by the University of Montpellier (MARBEC, CEFE) in partnership with the company Spygen, ADNeIA is part of a dynamic effort to foster close collaboration between academic research and industrial innovation, promoting the transfer of knowledge to operational applications. These same partners were previously awarded an ANR LabCom grant in 2020 (DiagADNe), which served as a springboard for the development of this Industrial Chair project.

Tools for Biodiversity Conservation and Environmental Decision-Making

Through the development of integrated technological solutions, the ADNeIA project aims primarily to strengthen the protection of marine environments by enabling more detailed, continuous, and non-intrusive monitoring of ecosystems. The data generated will help identify sensitive areas and monitor conservation strategies, such as the establishment of marine protected areas. The project also aims to improve the assessment of the impact of human activities—particularly wind farms and ports—on biodiversity. By providing relevant ecological indicators, ADNeIA will help ensure that environmental issues are better addressed in policies governing the management of coastal ecosystems.

Through its digital platform, ADNeIA will provide local governments, natural area managers, and businesses with decision-support tools that enable them to monitor biodiversity trends, generate reports that comply with regulatory requirements, and guide their actions regarding environmental responsibility.

Finally, by combining biology, robotics, and artificial intelligence, the project will contribute to the development of new scientific approaches in marine ecology and enhance the global influence of French research in the field of environmental sciences.

Several expeditions will be conducted starting in the summer of 2026, and members of the media are welcome to join us.