Learn how forensic science and DNA analysis is used to limit the illegal trade of protected shark fins in the activity Wildlife Forensics.
Shark fins are in incredible demand in Asia, costing hundreds of dollars a pound to be used in soups. To collect fins, hunters will catch sharks and de-fin them, often throwing the harmed sharks back into the water where they are unable to swim properly or survive.
Due to the greatly dwindling shark populations, the U.S. government protects certain species, like the great white, and has made it illegal to hunt and trade them. Bringing those who illegally hunt great white sharks to justice is not an easy task. It is often impossible to visually identify what species a shark fin belongs to, especially when the fins have been dried and processed. Wildlife officials have turned to genetic analysis and forensics to identify shark fin species.
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Students will engage in a STEM challenge to design a truck powered by a chemical reaction that will have to stop within a specific drop-off zone. Teams will be challenged with various payloads to earn bonus points if they can stop in the drop-off zone.
