The technology developed during this research would also be applicable to other species such as oysters and abalone. The increasing importance of aquaculture in Australia has led to a growing demand for new technological methods. The project's approach to this research represents a balanced program of tactical, strategic aquaculture research into reproduction and genetic manipulation to improve production efficiency. This expertise will be applied to a variety of aquaculture species and wild species to identify population structures and species, and carry out DNA marker-assisted selective breeding. The aquaculture aspects of this project are directed towards those species likely to benefit the most from the application of genetic techniques.
Penaeid prawns are the first target of selective breeding programs.
This work is being undertaken at the Cleveland facilities - in close collaboration with industry. Genetic programs are also underway with Atlantic salmon, ascertaining the extent, if any, of inbreeding in Tasmanian stocks, and finding a genetic marker for males.