ShellBank: Saving Turtles with DNA
November 2022
World Wildlife Fund

Introduction
Dive into the world of ShellBank, the revolutionary DNA toolkit and database aimed at cracking down on the illegal marine turtle trade. Launched at the 19th CITES Convention, ShellBank is changing the game by enabling law enforcers to trace turtle parts back to their source, revealing poaching hotspots and saving these magnificent creatures from extinction. With six out of seven marine turtle species threatened, ShellBank's global DNA database is a beacon of hope. Ready to join the fight? Let's make a difference together!
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Turtles in Trouble - A Call to Action
Imagine a world where marine turtles, those ancient mariners of the sea, are no longer threatened by the shadowy hands of illegal trade. This isn't just about saving adorable turtles; it's about preserving the balance of marine ecosystems and upholding international laws designed to protect our planet's biodiversity. The launch of ShellBank, the world's first toolkit and global database for marine turtle DNA, marks a groundbreaking step in this quest. By tracing the origins of illegally traded turtle products back to their source, ShellBank empowers law enforcers and conservationists to pinpoint poaching hotspots and protect vulnerable turtle populations. This initiative not only showcases the power of technology in conservation efforts but also highlights the importance of global cooperation in tackling environmental crimes. For you, this could be a call to explore how science and technology intersect with environmental conservation, offering a glimpse into how your interests and skills could contribute to meaningful global initiatives.
Speak like a Scholar

Biodiversity
The variety of life in the world or in a particular habitat or ecosystem. Think of it as the vast array of different living things in any given area, from the tiniest bacteria to the largest whales.

Conservation
The careful preservation and protection of something, especially planned management of a natural resource to prevent exploitation, destruction, or neglect. This is all about keeping our planet's environments and creatures safe for the future.

Forensics
Scientific tests or techniques used in connection with the detection of crime. Yes, just like in those detective shows, but for wildlife crime!

Genetic signature
A unique pattern in an organism's DNA that can identify it as belonging to a particular species or even a specific population. It's like a genetic fingerprint for animals.

Poaching
Illegal hunting, killing, or capturing of wild animals. This is a major threat to wildlife, including marine turtles, driven by illegal trade demands.

Sustainable
Using natural products and energy in a way that does not harm the environment. It's about taking what we need to live now without jeopardizing the potential for people in the future to meet their needs.
Independent Research Ideas

The role of technology in wildlife conservation
Investigate how cutting-edge technologies like DNA analysis and satellite tracking are revolutionizing the fight against illegal wildlife trade and poaching.

Impact of illegal trade on marine biodiversity
Explore how the illegal trade of marine species, such as turtles, affects the biodiversity of marine ecosystems and what measures can be taken to mitigate these impacts.

Community involvement in turtle conservation
Examine how local communities around the world are participating in marine turtle conservation efforts and the effectiveness of these grassroots initiatives.

Forensic science and its role in protecting endangered species
Dive into the world of wildlife forensics and discover how forensic science is used to enforce laws protecting endangered species.

Sustainable practices and marine conservation
Research sustainable practices that can be adopted by industries and communities to reduce their impact on marine life, focusing on real-world examples of successful conservation efforts.
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