Audio long read: The air is full of DNA — here’s what scientists are using it for

You have full access to this article via your institution. Download the May 2026 long read podcast Although scientists have long been able to gather DNA from water and soil, it's only recently that they've started to see the air as a source of genetic information. Airborne DNA is already being used to monitor individual species, but researchers hope its abundance could have multiple uses, including judging the success of conservation efforts or attacks with biological weapons. …