Researchers from Flinders University have found a new way to identify shark species involved in bite incidents by using injury dressings found in first-aid kits to collect DNA samples from aquatic equipment such as surfboards. This method can provide accurate and timely information about the species responsible for shark-related incidents and improve how these incidents are investigated. The research, published in the journal Forensic Science International: Genetics, involved scientists from Flinders University, The New South Wales Department of Primary Industries, and Queensland Department of Agriculture and Fisheries, and was based on three separate shark incidents where samples were obtained from surf skis and a surfboard.
By using the PCR testing method popularized by COVID-19, researchers were able to show that using medical gauze to collect organic tissue and DNA samples from shark bites is a reliable approach to identifying shark species. They successfully identified the species responsible for each bite in three separate incidents in Australia and South Africa, even in a case that occurred over a month after the incident. The study also compared the effectiveness of ordinary gauze to specialized forensic swabs typically used to collect genetic material from shark bite materials and found that both methods worked well in identifying the shark species involved.
Lead author Dr. Belinda Martin of Flinders University emphasizes the importance of rapid identification of shark species in providing accurate information to guide future prevention measures and reduce the number of shark incidents. Dr. Martin notes that human-shark interactions can cause public anxiety, especially following fatal attacks, and accurate species identification is crucial for providing information to victims and communities. The new DNA collection technique using regular gauze found in first-aid kits provides a reliable and accessible approach for first responders, including surfers, lifesavers, police, and paramedics, to collect DNA samples from shark bite incidents.
Co-author Dr. Michael Doane at Flinders University highlights the significance of the testing method in providing samples that can be used to reliably identify the shark species hours to days after a shark bite. The use of gauze as a simple and effective alternative to specialized forensic swabs encourages first responders to collect DNA samples from bite sites as soon as possible to limit contamination or DNA loss and increase the likelihood of species identification. As long as humans engage in marine activities, shark-human interactions will continue, and while the likelihood of such interactions remains low, shark bites can deeply affect victims, their families, witnesses, and communities. The new DNA collection technique using gauze from first-aid kits offers a practical solution for identifying shark species involved in bite incidents and informing future prevention strategies.
