Finding Nemo: Scientists Use AI To Catch Illegal Marine Wildlife Traffickers

Article excerpt

Researchers at an Australian institution have trained an artificial intelligence system to identify illegally trafficked marine wildlife, shark fins, seahorses, sea cucumbers, concealed in luggage and parcels at airports with 92% accuracy. The AI analyzes CT scan imagery, catching contraband that typically evades detection when smuggled alongside legitimate goods. The breakthrough addresses a global trafficking problem estimated in the billions annually, with these species targeted for traditional medicine, aquarium trade, and food markets. By automating detection at border checkpoints, the system could dramatically scale enforcement efforts that currently rely on manual inspection.