Diego Cardenosa and scientists from Florida International University are utilizing a PCR testing method to identify shark species and combat illegal seafood trade. After discovering a fin from an endangered sandbar shark in a bowl of soup, they are now partnering with NOAA to implement these tests at ports across the U.S. to tackle seafood fraud related to illegal fishing. With rising seafood demand and significant global trade in shark parts, this initiative aims to protect declining shark populations and support legitimate fishers.
Using a PCR test similar to those used during the Covid-19 pandemic, Cardenosa was able to identify the species behind the fin as sandbar shark, an endangered species.
The value of world trade in shark parts is almost $1bn a year, and almost a third of shark species are threatened or near threatened with extinction.
Cardenosa recently tested a container labeled as American eel for European eel. The PCR devices lit up, confirming the presence of European eels and highlighting seafood fraud.
NOAA enforcement staff and Florida International University scientists perform the first field PCR test, aiming to crack down on seafood fraud and fish trafficking.
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