Protecting Endangered Elasmobranchs Through DNA

Underneath the glistening surface of the world’s oceans lies a complex network of marine life. Each species plays a crucial role in maintaining the delicate ecosystems that make up our planet. However, this balance is under threat as biodiversity faces a crisis of extinction. Over the past fifty years, animal diversity has plummeted by an alarming 70%, highlighting the significant impact humans have had on the natural world.

Elasmobranchs, including sharks and rays, are among the most vulnerable inhabitants of our oceans. Relentless fishing and overexploitation have put immense pressure on these species, disrupting the fragile balance of marine ecosystems they call home. Whether targeted intentionally or caught unintentionally, these magnificent animals face the risk of extinction. With slow growth, late maturity, and low reproductive rates, these species struggle to replenish their numbers.

Urgent action is necessary to protect the heartbeat of our planet.

The crisis is particularly severe in Indonesian waters, which see the highest volume of elasmobranch landings due to significant bycatch. With a quarter of the world’s elasmobranch species calling these waters home, Indonesia’s role in shaping the future of these species is undeniable. “Indonesian authorities have implemented various measures to reduce the decline of elasmobranch populations, including increasing the number of protected species, outreach programs, improved data collection and stock assessment, expanding marine protected areas, and implementing measures to combat illegal fishing,” state the authors of a recent study.

Within these challenges, there is hope through the intersection of science and technology. The development of DNA-based diagnostic tools has revolutionized wildlife identification, with the FASTFISH-ID method leading the way. This cutting-edge technique, based on real-time PCR, enables rapid and portable species identification. By using fluorescent probes to target specific genetic markers in a species’ DNA, FASTFISH-ID creates unique fluorescent signatures for each species. These signatures are then analyzed by a real-time PCR machine, enabling accurate species identification.

The method was initially developed for bony fish but shows potential for elasmobranch identification, proving to be a game-changer. “We conducted tests to generate diverse fluorescent signatures specific to each of the 28 elasmobranch species commonly found in Indonesian trade. We also investigated whether a deep learning method could accurately assign signatures to the correct species,” state the authors.

After filtering out incongruous runs, a total of 357 pairs of fluorescent signatures were successfully generated, representing 28 species including 14 sharks and 14 rays. Among these species, 22 are listed under CITES, demonstrating the effectiveness of combining barcode segments to discern multiple species. However, some species have similar signatures, leading to misassignments.

Lead researcher Andhika P. Prasetyo of the University of Salford believes that the FASTFISH-ID method shows promise for identifying elasmobranch species. Its speed, portability, universality, and single nucleotide resolution make it a valuable tool for authorities. Despite current limitations, continuous improvements and database expansion can enhance its efficiency and accuracy. The method has the potential to untangle the complexity of the shark and ray product trade and reduce the risk of extinction for these iconic taxa.

As we face an uncertain future, the combination of advanced technology and dedicated conservation efforts provides hope for the well-being of these iconic marine species.

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