code Béluga

The first results are in!

Browse the interactive map and explore the results for each sampling site.

*Note: Starting winter 2026, the research community can request access to raw data through the Genovalia platform.

A community science project on the biodiversity of the St. Lawrence River

Initiated by Génome Québec and Espace pour la vie, code Beluga is a community science project aimed at better understanding the state of biodiversity in the St. Lawrence Estuary just by analysing the environmental DNA contained in a water sample.  During the 12 sampling days held from May to August 2025, more than 800 people came to lend a hand at one of the four selected sites in the St. Lawrence Estuary.

Following a protocol established by Génome Québec, and thanks to the citizen engagement and science communication approach developed with the Biodôme’s education team, 500 water samples were collected and filtered on the riverbanks this summer. That’s more than 125 liters of water!

After being meticulously analyzed at the Centre d’expertise et de services Génome Québec, these samples revealed the presence of over 80 different organisms!  A beautiful diversity ranging from small, discreet marine worms to large, majestic marine mammals.

Watch the clip of the first results (Fr only)

Watch the informative clip (Fr only)

Launch Recap

code Béluga in the media

Radio interviews

Articles

An infographic by Le Journal de Montréal

Television appearance

TVA Nouvelles CIMT – 5:18 à 7:05 

The initiative will help:

  • Support prevention, monitoring and conservation efforts of key St. Lawrence River species, including the beluga;
  • Better understand the biodiversity and changing environment of the St. Lawrence River Estuary;
  • Mobilize the public around the importance of preserving aquatic ecosystems.

Environmental DNA, how does it work

  • eDNA is much like a genetic fingerprint left by living organisms in their environment. To learn more, visit our Environmental DNA page.

code Béluga at the Biodôme

The Biodôme, one of the five museums of Espace pour la vie, invites you to discover the secrets of biodiversity through interactive and educational initiatives. Immerse yourself in the fascinating world of the beluga whale and contribute to the protection of the precious ecosystem of the St. Lawrence Estuary. For more information: code Béluga