South African researchers are pioneering a groundbreaking approach to combating rhino poaching by integrating nuclear technology into conservation efforts. In a recent pilot study, scientists at the University of the Witwatersrand's Radiation and Health Physics Unit successfully inserted low doses of radioisotopes into the horns of 20 live rhinoceroses.
James Larkin, a researcher leading the Rhisotope Project, explained that the addition of radioisotopes allows for the horns to be easily detected using radiation detection portal monitors set up at international borders, airports, harbors, and land crossings. This innovative method aims to deter poachers by increasing the likelihood of seized horns being traced back to their source.
Over the six-month study, the team monitored the effectiveness of the radioactive markers in preventing illegal trafficking and ensuring the safety of these majestic animals. If successful, this technology could become a vital tool in the global fight against wildlife trafficking, safeguarding rhino populations for future generations.
The Rhisotope Project represents a unique intersection of nuclear science and wildlife conservation, showcasing how advanced technology can address pressing environmental challenges. As poaching continues to threaten numerous species, such inventive solutions offer hope for sustainable and impactful protection measures.
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South African researchers pilot nuclear technology to tackle poaching
cgtn.com
