DNA ID
Universal Shark and Ray PCR-based Identification

DNA ID offers a fast, cost-effective, and accurate method for identifying elasmobranch species—sharks, rays, and skates—using PCR. Designed to support conservation enforcement and combat illegal wildlife trade, this assay distinguishes species by analyzing the unique melting behavior of PCR products generated from DNA isolated from any type of tissue (e.g., fins, meat, skin). Validated across hundreds of vouchered specimens, the protocol requires minimal lab infrastructure and is optimized for high-throughput processing at a low cost of $USD1.50 per sample. DNA ID currently identifies over 80 elasmobranch species commonly encountered in trade, with ongoing efforts to expand coverage.

 

The goal is not only to increase the number of elasmobranchs in the reference library, but also to develop assays for other wildlife taxa targeted in illegal trade. Whether in a centralized lab or a field-based setting, DNA ID empowers border control personnel, law enforcement, researchers, and conservation practitioners with a powerful tool for near real-time species verification (i.e., 2 to 4 hours depending on the amount of samples).