Tracking Vertebrate Species in Cross-Border Sample Transport and Analyzing Associated Pathogens.

Bc. Juliana Walterová

Diplomová práce

Abstract:

Wildlife crime and the illegal trade in animal products pose a significant global threat to biodiversity, public health, and national security. Smuggling of meat and wildlife-derived goods via air transport not only violates international regulations such as CITES but also creates a pathway for the introduction of zoonotic and epizootic pathogens. Despite growing attention to these risks, systematic monitoring at European airports remains limited. This study presents the first comprehensive forensic investigation of animal products confiscated from passenger luggage at Václav Havel Airport in Prague. The research combined molecular species identification using mitochondrial markers with screening for African swine fever virus (ASFV). A total of 408 samples were analysed using the 16S rRNA locus, revealing a wide range of species including domestic animals, as well as wild species such as softshell turtles, swamp eels, and various fish. There was a clear predominance of pork meat (119 samples), followed by beef meat (57 samples) and dog meat (45 samples). The 16S rRNA marker proved effective for most vertebrates and highly processed materials but showed limited resolution in distinguishing closely related taxa. ASFV DNA was detected in 57 samples (36.1%), including raw, cooked, and processed pork products. Genotyping with the P72 marker identified two viral genotypes, including genotype 1, which is currently absent from mainland Europe. These results highlight the alarming potential for pathogen introduction through illegally imported meat and emphasise the importance of genetic monitoring at international borders. This work provides essential insights into the types of smuggled animal products entering the Czech Republic and demonstrates the utility of molecular tools for enforcing wildlife protection laws and safeguarding animal health.

Keywords

African swine fever virus, Airport, Animal products, CITES, Customs, Trafficking, Wildlife trade

Jazyk práce: angličtina

Datum vytvoření / odevzdání či podání práce: 26. 4. 2025

Obhajoba závěrečné práce

• Obhajoba proběhla 2. 6. 2025
• Vedoucí: Mgr. Barbora Černá Bolfíková, Ph.D.
• Oponent: Vojtěch Baláž, externi

Česká zemědělská univerzita v Praze

Fakulta tropického zemědělství

Magisterský studijní program / specializace:
Wildlife and Livestock Production, Management and Conservation / Wildlife Management and Conservation