Genome editing to Enhance Fish Productivity

News Excerpt:

The Kerala University of Fisheries and Ocean Studies (Kufos) is set to a genome editing mission aimed at revolutionizing pearl spot aquaculture, similar to the impact Genetically Improved Farmed Tilapia (GIFT) had decades ago.

Method being followed:

  • Genome editing will specifically target the genetic makeup of pearl spots to promote faster growth rates. 
    • This advancement will significantly enhance breeding and seed production, providing a major boost to aqua farmers in the state.
  • The university is collaborating with the Agharkar Research Institute in Maharashtra, an autonomous entity under the Department of Science and Technology renowned for its expertise in biodiversity and genetics.
  • By leveraging the latest technology and tapping into a vast knowledge base, Kufos aims to achieve the desired results in a shorter time frame

Significance of the initiative:

  • This initiative is expected to be a significant boon for the state's aqua farmers, allowing them to produce fish that achieve higher body weights more rapidly.
  • The University DNA will also publish the  sequencing of pearl spots in the public domain.

Genome Editing

  • Genome editing, particularly through CRISPR-Cas9 technology, has revolutionized agriculture, fishery, and animal husbandry. By precisely altering DNA sequences, scientists can enhance desirable traits such as disease resistance, growth rates, and nutritional content.
  • Genome editing enables the development of crops that are more resilient to pests, diseases, and climate changes. This results in higher yields and reduced reliance on chemical pesticides, promoting sustainable agriculture.
  • Genome editing targets the genetic makeup of fish to accelerate growth rates and improve breeding efficiency. 
  • For nearly 30 years, Genetically Improved Farmed Tilapia (GIFT) have benefitted millions across the world with their fast growth.
  • In animal husbandry, genome editing helps produce livestock with improved health, growth, and productivity. It allows for the creation of animals that are resistant to diseases, reducing the need for antibiotics and improving overall animal welfare.
  • Overall, genome editing holds significant potential to advance food production, enhance sustainability, and ensure food security globally.

 

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