Aquasearch - Genetic Marker
Genetic marker assisted selection is the current “state of the art” technology in rainbow trout breeding. The technique is based on identifying well-defined genome sequences (Quality Trait Loci / QTL’s) in the proximity of the actual gene coding for specific traits. Whenever the particular trait is desired in the offspring, parent fish are selected based on positive findings of the QTL. Since parent fish can be either homozygotic or heterogenic / QTL positive on both or just one chromosome allele, and the QTL requirement can be related to one or both parent fish, intensity of selection differ accordingly. AquaSearch has adapted genetic marker assisted selection in our general breeding programmes and the genetic propagation of most current breeding lines. Hence several important traits are in the process of being fixed in future generations. Please see datasheets on individual breeding lines for details.
In addition to this, AquaSearch is offering to use genetic marker assisted selection in commercial batches. Individual customers might have identified benefits or requirements related to specific traits with an adjacent QTL available, and customized batches can be produced on request. Primarily male contribution is offered, but occasionally also female contribution can be included. Seasonal variation in availability should be anticipated and well advance planning is advised, with a minimum 6-week advance ordering necessary.
Genetic background and breeding lines available with QTL’s
QTL’s available depend on the specific breeding line. Please refer to individual product data sheets and individual QTL’s for linkage.
Also please note that a QTL’s has not been, and will never be, identified for every important trait. Some traits are to complex and controlled by an array of genes, not easily correlated to single genome sequences. These include growth, feed conversion and other key features, and will have to be selected for by traditional optimum contribution breeding (family breeding) or the more comprehensive multi loci genomic selection technology.