Wildlife Conservation Efforts

Rhisotope Project

Why in the News?

In a move to combat rhino poaching, the University of the Witwatersrand in South Africa, supported by the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), has launched the Rhisotope Project.

What is Rhisotope Project? 

  • Launched By: University of the Witwatersrand, South Africa, with support from the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA).
  • Initiation: Concept began in 2021; formally launched in July 2024.
  • Objective: Prevent rhino poaching by making horns traceable and unsuitable for illegal trade.
  • Pilot Site: Waterberg Biosphere Reserve, South Africa.
  • Pilot Implementation: 20 rhinos injected with radioisotopes (exact isotope remains undisclosed) for testing.

How the Isotope Tagging Works?

  • Isotope Basics: Uses radioactive isotopes that emit detectable radiation as they decay.
  • Injection Method: A small hole is drilled into the horn; a low dose of isotope is inserted safely.
  • Detection Mechanism: Radiation Portal Monitors at ports can detect tagged horns—even inside 40-foot containers, as proven using 3D-printed horn simulations.

Rhisotope Project

Significance:

  • Safety Assurance: No damage to rhinos observed; cytological tests showed no cellular or physiological harm.
  • Impact on Illegal Trade: Horn becomes detectable, unusable, and toxic for illegal human consumption.
[UPSC 2019] Consider the following statements:

1. Asiatic lion is naturally found In India only.     2. Double-humped camel is naturally found in India only.     3. One-horned rhinoceros is naturally found in India only.

Which of the statements given above is / are correct?”

Options:   (a) 1 only *  (b) 2 only   (c) 1 and 3 only    (d) 1, 2 and 3

 

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