'Aerial metagenomics' best refers to which one of the following situations?

(a) Collecting DNA samples from air in a habitat at one go
(b) Understanding the genetic makeup of avian species of a habitat
(c) Using air-borne devices to collect blood samples from moving animals
(d) Sending drones to inaccessible areas to collect plant and animal samples from land surfaces and water bodies

Explanation:

“Aerial metagenomics” refers to the collection and analysis of genetic material (DNA, RNA) directly from environmental samples. In the context of “aerial” metagenomics, it would specifically refer to collecting these samples from the air in a given habitat. This can include various forms of airborne life and particles such as microbial communities, fungal spores, pollen, and even fragments of plant or animal DNA that might be present in the air. The aim is to understand the biodiversity and functioning of ecosystems from the DNA up. It does not typically involve the collection of blood samples from animals, nor is it specific to avian species or the use of drones to collect samples from land and water surfaces.