Review Article: Biotechnology in aquaculture

Abstract

The paper argues that due to global overfishing, aquaculture is the only way to increase fish production in the future. The aquaculture industry is currently faced with solving the simultaneous problems of developing economically viable production systems, reducing the impact on the environment and improving public perception. Whereas significant progress has been made in understanding production systems, improvement in cultured stocks has not kept pace with productivity demands. This paper discusses technical, environmental, and management considerations regarding the use of genetically modified organisms (e.g. fish) in aquaculture. Efforts are now underway to domesticate new fish species for aquaculture and to meet global demand for increased food production. In order to optimize results in new breeding programmes, genetic engineering and genetically modified organisms (GMOs) offer new possibilities. Biotechnology allows the introduction of new traits, or improvements of old ones, which are impossible to achieve with conventional breeding methods. Some genes with commercial potential include those that control growth, disease resistance, cold tolerance, sexual maturation, food quality and preservation. The paper calls for international collaboration to develop expertise in implementing these new technologies. The use of tools of modern biotechnology to improve the health, reproduction, development, growth, and overall well-being of cultivated aquatic organisms while promoting the interdisciplinary development of environmentally sensitive, sustainable systems will enable significant commercialization of aquaculture. This paper is intended to contribute towards the process of decision making in rationalizing support for policies on research funding programmes by national and international institutions including governments, regional and global organizations. The paper discusses both advantages and possible complications of biotechnological research application and commercialization. Whatever the pros and cons of biotechnological development, institutions of developing nations must grow abreast with the rest of the world.


Key words: Biotechnology, aquaculture, production systems, GE fish.


Journal of Aquatic Sciences Vol.17(2) 2002: 150-156