Summary diagram of sedaDNA sources from different geographic settings, marine depositional conditions, and damage accumulation

This diagram summarizes the possible sources of sedimentary ancient DNA, deposition in a sediment matrix, and accumulated damage overtime, illustrating the pathways and constraints that influence sedaDNA signal recovery. a. SedaDNA sources may be from a range of geographic settings including marine, permafrost, and terrestrial environments. Environmental samples may be collected (i.e. corred) horizontally for a snapshot or vertically for a time-series record, capturing diverse ancient DNA signals from fungi, flora, and fauna. b. For example, in the marine setting DNA is deposited through the water column for initial burial, as sediment accumulates DNA fragments bind to sediment matrix components. Silica rich fine-grain clay sediments are particularly favourable for stable binding. c. Site specific damage dictates the time limit for recoverable sediment ancient DNA from a prospective core. Pre-burial damage may include solar UV-radiation, oxidation, microbial activity, and temperature fluctuations/ heat stress; all of which may differ between source organism groups. Post-burial damage may also include movement of DNA through sediment either via leaching, bioturbation, or sediment disturbance which disrupt the protective binding within sediment matrix. This diagram was created with Canva (Canva Pty LTd.) and Adobe Illustrator (Adobe Inc.).