The Rhisotope Project

On 31st July 2025, South Africa launched a novel anti-poaching effort to safeguard rhinos by making their horns traceable. The Rhisotope Project, led by the University of the Witwatersrand and supported by the IAEA, injects harmless radioactive isotopes into rhino horns.

  • This method allows customs agents to detect trafficked horns while ensuring no harm to the animals, offering a safer alternative to dehorning.
  • Radioactive isotopes emit detectable radiation, allowing horns to be identified by radiation portal monitors (RPMs) at ports and airports.
  • The non-invasive procedure ensures rhino safety while making the horn “poisonous” and traceable to deter ....
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