Endangered sharks, rays further threatened by global food markets

Using DNA barcoding technology, University of Guelph researchers discover a majority of the shark fins and manta gills sold around the world are from endangered species.

Date: August 25, 2017

Source: University of Guelph

Summary:

A majority of shark fins and manta ray gills sold around the globe for traditional medicines come from endangered species, a study has revealed. Using cutting-edge DNA barcoding technology, researchers found 71 per cent of dried fins and gills collected from markets in Canada, China and Sri Lanka came from species listed as at-risk and therefore banned from international trade.

Continued