Govind Tekale
NOAA has successfully tested a new field device that can identify fish species on the spot, helping catch over 40 tons of illegally trafficked seafood during its first trial.
The device, which uses rapid PCR technology similar to COVID-19 tests, can identify more than 100 different fish species within hours – a process that previously took weeks when samples had to be sent to labs. This speed allows officials to stop illegal seafood before it enters the market.
During a weeklong test at the Port of Newark in November 2024, NOAA enforcement staff used the device to identify over 27 tons of illegally harvested fish, including prohibited species and those protected under international conservation agreements. In total, more than 40 tons of trafficked fish from Asia and South America were intercepted.
“Ultimately, we want to facilitate sustainable, legal commerce, but at the same time interdict illegal trade,” said Bryan Landry, Assistant Special Agent in Charge in NOAA Fisheries Office of Law Enforcement. “This new technology will help us do that more efficiently.”
The technology was developed through a partnership with Florida International University. “The idea is to make this technology available to everyone so that it becomes routine to do genetic testing in the field,” said Diego Cardeñosa, PhD, lead researcher on the project.
Similar Posts
This innovation addresses a major challenge in seafood imports – visual inspection alone often can’t identify fish species accurately. Under U.S. law, falsely labeling imported products is illegal, but enforcement has been difficult without quick testing methods.
The device works by using unique genetic markers that produce specific chemical reactions depending on the fish species being tested. Currently, it can identify tuna, shark, eel, and many other commonly trafficked species.
The Newark operation involved multiple agencies including Customs and Border Protection, Homeland Security Investigations, the Food and Drug Administration, and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. A Europol Enforcement Liaison also shared intelligence with EU partners conducting similar operations in France, Spain, and Portugal.
NOAA plans to pilot the device in other major ports of entry throughout 2025.
The seafood fraud problem extends beyond mislabeling. Illegal, unreported, and unregulated fishing has significant impacts on marine conservation efforts and sustainable fishing practices. The device helps enforce U.S. laws against falsely labeled seafood products and supports international efforts to protect endangered marine species.
The introduction of this field forensic device represents an important step in protecting marine resources, ensuring consumer trust, and supporting sustainable fishing practices worldwide.
FAQs
What is seafood fraud and why does it matter?
Seafood fraud involves mislabeling fish species, often selling cheaper or illegally caught fish as premium products. It matters because it deceives consumers, undermines sustainable fishing efforts, threatens endangered species, and can pose health risks when species with different allergen profiles are substituted.
How does the new NOAA device identify fish species?
The device uses rapid polymerase chain reaction (PCR) technology to analyze DNA, similar to COVID-19 tests. It detects unique genetic markers that produce specific chemical reactions depending on the fish species being tested, allowing for identification within hours instead of weeks.
How much illegal seafood was found during the testing?
During the weeklong test at the Port of Newark, NOAA identified more than 27 tons of fish that were illegally harvested, prohibited in trade, or protected by international agreements. In total, over 40 tons of trafficked fish from Asia and South America were intercepted.
Who developed this technology?
The technology was developed through a partnership between NOAA and Florida International University. Dr. Diego Cardeñosa was the lead researcher on the project.
Where else will this device be used?
After the successful test at the Port of Newark, New Jersey, NOAA plans to pilot the device in other major ports of entry throughout 2025, though specific locations haven’t been announced yet.
How does this device help combat illegal fishing?
The device helps combat illegal, unreported, and unregulated (IUU) fishing by quickly identifying mislabeled seafood at ports of entry. This prevents illegally caught fish from entering the market, reduces fraud, protects endangered species, and helps enforce international conservation agreements.
