Development of a Genetic Management and Improvement Strategy for Australian Cultured Barramundi
Project Number - 2007/758
Start Date - 31st August 2008
End Date - 30th January 2009
Principal Investigator - Dr Nick Robinson
Research Provider - South Australian R&D Institute
CRC Research End User - Aust. Barramundi Farmers Assoc
About the Project
The Australian Barramundi industryhave long appreciated the potential for improving the sustainability and profitability of production through the appropriate implementation of genetic management and improvement of the species. However, previous attempts to develop a coordinated national strategy for this species have not met with success due to a poor understanding of possible models by which a breeding program within the industry can be implemented, the resources required for implementation and the potential benefits that will arise from a successful breeding program.
This project will catlyse efforts directed towards an industry wide approach to the sustainable and economically viable genetic
management and improvement strategy for cultured Barramundi in Australia.
Project Objectives
1. To review existing Barramundi-related genetic knowledge to identify relevant research and where the research and development gaps preventing instigation of Barramundi breeding programs presently exist.
2. To identify, through direct engagement with industry and research and development providers, the levels of infrastructure and resources that are available to undertake collaborative genetics related research and development.
3. Undertake a genetic audit of available hatchery stocks, using established genetic marker systems, to provide a census of captured genetic variation and genealogical relationships among broodstock.
4. Through consultation with Seafood Cooperative Research centre research and development providers and industry, develop research options that will fill the knowledge gap currently impeding commencement of targeted breeding programs.
5. To identify opportunities for additional industry investment in barramundi genetic improvement and related research through consultation with Barramundi farmers and other industry groups and stakeholders.
6. Undertake a prioritisation exercise to identify traits that should be targeted in future researc and development and selection programs.
7. Conduct a benefit cost analysis of the effective and appropriate implementation of genetic improvement strategies.
8. Identify training needs in genetic management and improvement and raise awareness of the potential benefits of genetic improvement to the industry.
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