Legal

Terms of Service

Last updated: March 2026

1. About Us

Echidna Seq is a DNA barcoding and species identification service operated from Gosford, NSW, Australia (ABN: pending). By using our website, purchasing products, or submitting samples for analysis, you agree to these terms.

2. Services

We provide DNA-based species identification using Sanger sequencing. This includes sample collection kits, laboratory analysis (DNA extraction, PCR amplification, sequencing), bioinformatic analysis (BLAST searches against public databases), and a digital identification report.

We also sell physical products including mushroom cultivation supplies, laboratory equipment, reagents, and consumables through our associated stores.

3. Sample Submission

By submitting biological samples to us, you confirm that:

โ€” You collected the sample legally and with any required permits
โ€” The sample does not contain material from protected or endangered species without appropriate authorisation
โ€” The sample is not from a human source (we do not perform human genetic testing)
โ€” You consent to the sample being processed, sequenced, and the resulting data being stored digitally

We retain the right to refuse processing of any sample at our discretion.

4. Results & Accuracy

Species identifications are based on comparison of DNA sequences against publicly available reference databases (NCBI GenBank, UNITE, BOLD Systems). Results reflect the best available match at the time of analysis.

We provide confidence levels with each identification. However, DNA barcoding has inherent limitations:

โ€” Some species cannot be distinguished by the barcode region alone
โ€” Reference databases are incomplete โ€” your species may not yet be represented
โ€” Sequence quality depends on sample condition and preservation
โ€” Results should not be used as the sole basis for consumption, medical, or safety decisions

We do not guarantee species-level identification for every sample. If sequencing fails or produces inconclusive results, we will notify you and discuss options including re-extraction or refund.

5. Pricing & Payment

All prices are listed in Australian Dollars (AUD) and include GST where applicable. Payment is processed securely through Square. We accept major credit and debit cards.

Prices may change without notice. The price at the time of purchase is the price you pay.

6. Shipping

Physical products and sample collection kits are shipped within Australia via Australia Post. Standard shipping times are 3โ€“7 business days. Express options may be available at checkout.

Risk of loss passes to you upon delivery. We are not responsible for delays caused by Australia Post or incorrect shipping addresses.

7. Refunds & Returns

Under Australian Consumer Law, you are entitled to a refund or replacement if a product is faulty, not as described, or does not perform as expected.

โ€” Unused kits: Full refund within 30 days of purchase
โ€” Failed sequencing: Free re-run or full refund at your choice
โ€” Inconclusive results: Partial refund or credit towards re-analysis
โ€” Consumables and reagents: Refund only if unopened and in original condition
โ€” Digital reports: Non-refundable once delivered

To request a refund, contact us at hello@echidnaseq.com.

8. Intellectual Property

Your sequence data belongs to you. We do not share, sell, or publish your individual sequences without your explicit consent.

The reports, website content, visualisations, and analysis tools are our intellectual property and may not be reproduced without permission.

9. Limitation of Liability

To the maximum extent permitted by Australian law, our liability for any claim arising from our services is limited to the amount you paid for the specific service or product in question.

We are not liable for any indirect, consequential, or incidental damages arising from the use of our services or products, including but not limited to decisions made based on identification results.

10. Governing Law

These terms are governed by the laws of New South Wales, Australia. Any disputes will be resolved in the courts of New South Wales.

11. Changes

We may update these terms from time to time. Continued use of the site after changes constitutes acceptance of the updated terms.

12. Contact

Echidna Seq
Gosford, NSW, Australia
hello@echidnaseq.com
ABN: pending