Seahorses and shark fins are illegally trafficked. An AI tool could help stop this crime

2026-06-07 · Source: Artificial intelligence (AI) – The Conversation · Field: Technology & Digital — Artificial Intelligence & Machine Learning, Emerging Technologies & Innovation · Depth: Intermediate, quick

Summary

A new study published in Frontiers in Ocean Sustainability demonstrates an artificial intelligence (AI) tool designed to detect illegally trafficked marine wildlife at international airports and mail facilities. Researchers developed world-first marine wildlife algorithms by scanning 68 samples of dead marine animals, including shark fins, seahorses, and sea cucumbers, using a 3D X-ray machine to create an image library. These algorithms were then trained to identify these items, even when hidden within bags or mail. The system achieved high success rates: 95% for shark fins, 95% for seahorses, and 85% for sea cucumbers across 298 scans. This AI serves as a complementary detection method, enhancing existing human and biosecurity dog efforts to combat the global crime of wildlife trafficking.

Key takeaway

For biosecurity and customs professionals tasked with interdicting illegal wildlife trade, integrating AI-powered 3D X-ray detection systems offers a significant enhancement to your current capabilities. This technology provides a "second set of eyes" to flag suspicious items like shark fins or seahorses, improving detection rates and helping identify critical trafficking routes. You should explore pilot programs for deploying these algorithms in international airports and mail facilities to augment human and canine inspection efforts.

Key insights

AI-powered 3D X-ray algorithms can effectively detect illegally trafficked marine wildlife, complementing human and canine inspection methods.

Principles

• Wildlife trafficking is a global, multi-billion dollar crime.
• AI algorithms augment human detection capabilities.
• 3D X-ray imaging enables AI training for contraband.

Method

Collect dead marine animal samples, scan them via 3D X-ray to create an image library, then develop and train algorithms using this library to identify specific trafficked items like shark fins, seahorses, and sea cucumbers.

In practice

• Implement AI algorithms at international borders.
• Identify key wildlife trade routes using AI flags.
• Integrate AI with existing human and dog inspections.

Topics

• Marine Wildlife Trafficking
• AI Detection Systems
• 3D X-ray Imaging
• Biosecurity Enforcement
• Customs Technology
• Conservation Technology

Best for: Computer Vision Engineer, AI Scientist, Research Scientist, Domain Expert

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Editorial summary, takeaway, and curation by AIssential. Original article published by Artificial intelligence (AI) – The Conversation.