Development of advanced reproductive techniques to characterize infertility in Barramundi (Old ID 23111)

QLD Department of Science, Information Technology and Innovation
Role

Chief Investigator

Description

Since the 1980's, the $45 million barramundi aquaculture industry has stagnated due to a lack of development of advanced breeding technologies. With the recent development of genomic resources & putative methods to control sex, the industry is poised to undergo rapid expansion by implementing a genetic-based breeding program. Significant impediments to progress include dependence on often unsuccessful mixed spawning events, under-representation of genetically valuable individuals in offspring, & an inability to preserve valuable bloodlines - all due to a poor understanding of the factors that determine (in)fertility in this species. This project will develop advanced reproductive techniques to characterize infertility & accelerate selective breeding in barramundi, which will be implemented into the industry. This project has been granted by the JCU Partnership Grants to consolidate the collaboration between the university and our industry partner, Mainstream Aquaculture, endowed with the largest recirculating aquaculture system operating in mainland Australia. Barramundi farming hold a subsequent place in Queensland as it is place of more than half of the Australian barramundi farm production. The outcomes of this project will provide a new leverage for Queensland's industry and economy by directly impacting the production, increasing capability for aquaculture farms and bring innovation in rural regions. Page 2

Date

17 Jan 2017 - 16 Jan 2020

Project Type

SCHOLARSHIP

Keywords

Lates calcarifer calcarifer (Latidae);Aquaculture;Animal Production;Sperm quality quality;DNA Damage;Infertility

Funding Body

QLD Department of Science, Information Technology and Innovation

Amount

45000

Project Team

Dean Jerry;Jarrod Guppy;Damien Paris