Rhino DNA INDEXING SYSTEM

Rhino DNA INDEXING SYSTEM

Subject : Environment

Context : Cases of poaching of rhinoceroses have come down drastically in South Africa ever since it implemented its Rhino Database as part of its conservation efforts. DNA tracing has allowed for conviction rates to rise sharply.

Indian researchers planning a similar system for the animal in the country’s jungles is welcome.

Concept :

• The project is part of the Rhino DNA Indexing System (RhODIS- India) conservation programme started a couple of years ago.
• Wildlife agencies elsewhere have been using modelling techniques to determine routes that poachers can take and predict when a crime is about to happen.
• DNA tracing can add to these technologies and convictions using scientific evidence can help with conservation efforts.

RhoDIS :

• RhODIS(Rhino DNA Index System) is a project that was initiated by the Veterinary Genetics Laboratory of the University of Pretoria in order to help with the plight of the rhinos.
• The Veterinary Genetics Laboratory is collecting DNA samples of rhinos across the country to create a database using the unique DNA profile of individual rhinos.
• The goal is for all rhinos to be on the system. This will deter poachers and assist in forensic prosecutions.
• South African National Parks (SANParks) have partnered with RhODIS since 2010 and in association with the Forensics Science Laboratory of the South African Police Services have played a key role in the development and implementation of the RhODIS Kit for sample collection.
• Samsung is the exclusive technology partner associated with this development.