Efforts are underway to identify other sex-linked genes. A long-term goal is to develop a molecular probe to identify the genotypic sex of individuals which would obviate the need for progeny testing. Gynogenetic techniques have been used to produce populations with reduced genetic variability. Analysis of recombination rates has permitted the development of genetic maps for a few loci. Unexpected sex ratios derived from broodfish produced by gynogenesis of sex-reversed females indicate the genetic control of sex determination may not be as direct as previously thought.
Efforts are underway to better understand the genetic control of sex in channel catfish.
Polyploid populations of channel catfish and hybrids with several other species of ictalurid catfishes have been produced and evaluated for growth performance. Liu, Q., C. A. Goudie, B. A. Simco, K. B. Davis and D. C. Morizot. Isozyme expression and gene-centromere mapping in diploid and triploid hybrid catfish. Transactions of the American Fisheries Society. Goudie, C.A., Q. Liu, B.A. Simco and K. B. Davis.