Shale producers applying microbe DNA sequencing to improve oil and gas economics

Biota DNA sequencing map

Biota successfully analyzed DNA for over 200 wells

Biota Technology, the oilfield DNA sequencing pioneer achieved a critical milestone on path to commercialization: the diagnostic has been deployed by a majority of the top 20 U.S. shale producers in the U.S., according to a press release.

“Biota is pioneering DNA sequencing in the energy industry. We have developed a clear value proposition to improve reservoir economics by quantifying hydrocarbon fluid movement. The fact that we have been able to attract a significant number of world class, Fortune 500 customers is testimony to our industry-changing solution,”  said CEO Ajay Kshatriya.

Biota works across all major shale plays in both oil and gas production. In a recently published case study, Biota delivered results in the Permian basin that uplifted the producers asset value by millions of dollars.

In four years since inception, the company experienced explosive growth in the adoption of DNA Sequencing, successfully analyzing over 200 wells from marquee companies such as Anadarko Petroleum, Marathon Oil, and Statoil.

“We are looking forward to leveraging Biota’s new subsurface data source to potentially optimize well productivity. By applying DNA sequencing to identify and differentiate fluid sources, Anadarko is aiming to fine-tune its understanding of drainage over time with the goal of maximizing value,” said Jose Silva, lead business strategist for Anadarko Petroleum.

To facilitate further commercial growth, Biota recently closed a Series B round of financing, led by Illumina Ventures. XSeed Capital and Energy Innovation Capital, existing investors in the company, also participated in the financing.

“Biota represents an entirely novel application of next-generation DNA sequencing,” said Dr. Nick Naclerio, founding partner of Illumina Ventures.

“The team has developed an actionable diagnostic that delivers both economic value and environmental benefit to a trillion dollar industry.”