PCR Test: From Identifying COVID, to Trafficked Fish Species!

Ports across the United States will soon deploy PCR tests — similar to those used during the COVID-19 pandemic — to identify marine species, including threatened or near-threatened ones, to crack down on seafood fraud and fish trafficking.

“Deployment of the PCR device will allow officers to conduct genetic analysis in real-time during inspections and detect seafood fraud,” explains US National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration spokesperson James Miller. “These efforts protect US consumers, who can feel safe knowing they are buying legal and safe seafood.”

Typical port inspections rely on visual identification of fish species. Still, this method becomes increasingly challenging when seafood products imported into the US enter as filets, processed fish products, or shark fins without carcasses. The PCR device uses genetic markers developed for over 100 species, including great whites, hammerheads, makos, oceanic whitetips, threshers, whale sharks, all Atlantic tuna species, and European eels. Once samples are added to the device, genetic markers produce a specific chemical reaction to the tested fish species. The PCR device is designed to give law enforcement officers enough preliminary evidence to stop shipments, as illegal fishing affects legitimate commercial fishers and the fish population.