WWW.WAS.ORG • WORLD AQUACULTURE • JUNE 2015 33 pedigree relationships. This inevitably leads to rapid inbreeding and loss of genetic variation in the target stocks and subsequent loss of fitness and production performance. Solutions Establishing a family-based breeding program requires substantial investments. This is a major constraint for technology uptake because relevant funding sources are limited and immediate results are often demanded by investors. However, studies show that investments in selective breeding programs are highly profitable, as demonstrated by high benefit to cost ratios. What does it take to initiate a breeding program? A group of farmers may cooperate and seek support from the state or obtain resources from other sources, build necessary facilities, secure assistance from specialists in selective breeding to form a base population, develop testing routines, calculate breeding values and distribute the genetic material to members. Given sufficient production volume, larger integrated companies may establish and operate in-house breeding programs. At present, commercial aquaculture producers generally have limited knowledge about the importance of selective breeding. Therefore education of farmers as well as researchers is greatly needed. In my view, WAS needs be a driving force for establishing well-designed and well-operated breeding programs for all major farmed species. The Society clearly shares a common responsibility to implement proper domestication and selection programs to secure increased productivity, improved utilization of scarce resources and improved animal health and welfare in aquaculture production. Notes Dr. Gjedrem works with Nofima and AFGC, Norway. He has been a member of WAS for many years and last year was awarded as an Honorary Life Member. SPONSOR A SUSTAINABLE AQUACULTURE BURSARY For more information contact elearning@5mpublishing.com View our range of courses at www.thefishsite.com/learn Please quote WAS when you contact us SUPPORT YOUR TEAM & STRENGTHEN YOUR COMPETITIVE EDGE At present, commercial aquaculture producers generally have limited knowledge about the importance of selective breeding. Therefore education of farmers as well as researchers is greatly needed.
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