Extracellular DNA (eDNA) is released into the environment through processes such as cell lysis, active secretion, and biofilm formation. It is found across diverse environmental matrices, including river water, soils, biofilms, and wastewater influents, where it can occur in substantial amounts. The genes contained within eDNA play important roles in horizontal gene transfer (HGT) and can also serve as indicators of microbial biodiversity in environmental samples. Consequently, studies focusing on eDNA are gaining increasing attention. Although several investigations have extracted both extracellular (eDNA) and intracellular DNA (iDNA) fractions and performed metagenomic analyses, significant knowledge gaps remain in our understanding of eDNA dynamics, composition, and ecological functions. Furthermore, standardized and optimized methods for eDNA extraction are still needed to enhance recovery. In this project, we explore two main directions: a) improving techniques for the extraction and quantification of eDNA from environmental samples and b) investigating the ecological roles of eDNA, including, but not limited to its contributions to nutrient supply and horizontal gene transfer (HGT).