A New Means to Measure Broodstock

A project to develop underwater vision technology for\r\nmeasuring aquaculture broodstock has been launched, following the signing of an\r\nagreement between Hendrix Genetics and Plant & Food Research.

In order to accurately select the right animal as a breeding\r\nparent, geneticists need to track key characteristics, including body weight\r\nand morphometrics (size and shape). However, in aquaculture, data collection on\r\nindividual animals offers significant challenges. Conventional methods, such as\r\nweighing scales, are labor-intensive and can compromise animal welfare.\r\nUnderwater vision technology offers a solution to accurately and efficiently\r\nidentify, measure, and select breeding stock.

Hendrix Genetics has signed a memorandum of understanding\r\nwith Plant & Food Research to develop underwater vision technology for\r\nmeasuring aquaculture broodstock

Plant &\r\nFood Research has developed new image-based processes to\r\nmeasure a range of traits in fish automatically. The high throughput system\r\nuses species-specific distinguishing features, such as visual patterning akin\r\nto a fingerprint, to identify individuals and track their growth over time.\r\nThis information can be used to identify individuals with the right\r\ncharacteristics to offer potential as parents in aquaculture breeding programs.

The development project will assess the viability of this\r\ntechnology in a commercial environment by performing a number of test cases in\r\ntrout.

Dr. Robbert Blonk, R&D director aquaculture of Hendrix Genetics states: “Accurate data collection and\r\ntracking individuals in aquaculture is key. We look forward to working with\r\nPlant & Food Research to implement their state-of-the-art technology to\r\nfurther advance our breeding programs.”

Dr. Maren Wellenreuther, science group leader seafood\r\nproduction for Plant & Food Research added, “Underwater vision technology\r\nhas the potential for a huge leap in breeding accuracy and further genetic\r\nimprovement. We look forward to continuing the development of this technology\r\nand see it adopted by industry partners like Hendrix Genetics.”

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With the combined expertise in breeding, genetics, and\r\ntechnology, the partners will further develop the techniques that have the\r\npotential to improve frequency and accuracy in trait measurements in a way with\r\nenhanced animal welfare outcomes. This project will increase the accuracy of\r\nselection inbreeding, which translates to healthy, efficient products for the\r\nentire aquaculture industry.

Source : The Fish Site