Kit‐Based Sampling by Trained Fishers Yields Successful DNA Identification of Depredating Shark Species in the Marianas

Shark depredation is a worldwide yet not well understood problem that responsible for economic losses in both commercial and recreational fisheries. We collaborated with fishers from the Mariana Islands western Pacific to identify depredating shark species via mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) barcoding of partially consumed fish real-world events. Trained collected swabs 29 events line fishery targeting snappers, emperors, jacks. Results showed an assemblage coral reef- shelf-associated was catch this fishery. The successful collection transfer depredated by trained 90% success rate identifying mtDNA confirm approach practical tool improving our understanding wide variety Although does solve fisheries, it critical step better phenomenon so potential solutions can be identified.