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Using morphometric and analytical techniques to characterize elephant ivory
Rina Rani Singh1, Surendra Prakash Goyal, Param Pal Khanna
1Wildlife Institute of India, Chandrabani, Dehradun 248001, Uttaranchal, India. rina@wii.gov.in
Forensic Science International
|August 8, 2006
Summary
This study analyzed Asian and African elephant ivory using Schreger angles and elemental and isotopic analysis. Findings provide crucial data for distinguishing ivory origins and combating illegal wildlife trade.
Area of Science:
- Forensic Science
- Wildlife Forensics
- Conservation Biology
Background:
- Illegal wildlife trade necessitates accurate methods for distinguishing elephant ivory origins.
- Asian and African elephant ivory require specific characterization for effective legal enforcement.
Purpose of the Study:
- To characterize Asian elephant ivory and compare it with African elephant ivory.
- To develop and apply analytical techniques for forensic identification of ivory sources.
- To support the control of illegal ivory trade and inform legal frameworks.
Main Methods:
- Schreger angle measurements were taken from ivory samples.
- Elemental analysis was performed using X-ray fluorescence (XRF), inductively coupled plasma-atomic emission spectroscopy (ICP-AES), and inductively coupled plasma-mass spectroscopy (ICP-MS).
- Isotopic analysis, including carbon (delta13C) and nitrogen (delta15N) isotopes, was conducted to infer diet and rainfall patterns.
Main Results:
- Schreger angles varied between 30-153 degrees for both Asian and African ivory samples.
- Elemental analysis provided preliminary data for ivory characterization.
- Isotopic ratios of carbon and nitrogen were determined, with specific ranges noted for delta13C (-13.6 to -25.6 per thousand) and delta15N (3.5 to 10.2 per thousand).
Conclusions:
- The study established key characteristics of Asian and African elephant ivory.
- Analytical methods, particularly powder sample isotopic analysis, show promise for forensic applications.
- This research contributes to differentiating ivory origins, aiding in the fight against illegal trade.
