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Time of India
19 hours ago
- Time of India
ICAR-CIBA Scientists Sequence Goldlined Seabream Genome to Boost Aquaculture Potential in India
ICAR-CIBA director Kuldeep K Lal says the genome sequencing would help researchers provide insights into the fish's growth, reproduction and metabolism Scientists at the Central Institute of Brackishwater Aquaculture (CIBA) have sequenced the genome of the goldlined seabream (Rhabdosargus sarba) — 'matti vaayan' in Tamil — in a step aimed at boosting its commercial aquaculture potential. This marine fish, known for its premium white meat priced between `500 per kg and `600 per kg, is in high demand in domestic markets but is not yet commercially farmed. You Can Also Check: Chennai AQI | Weather in Chennai | Bank Holidays in Chennai | Public Holidays in Chennai 'This fish is mostly captured from the wild. But we have now standardised the breeding protocols in hatchery conditions. The next step is to use this genomic data for selective breeding programmes, broodstock management, and in enhancing growth, reproduction, and metabolic efficiency,' says lead researcher M Shashi Shekhar, head of CIBA's aquatic animal health and environment division. Though it takes nearly three years for the fish to mature in the wild, it can reach a marketable size of 500g within six to eight months in aquaculture systems. ICAR-CIBA director Kuldeep K Lal says the genome sequencing would help researchers provide insights into the fish's growth, reproduction and metabolism. The goldlined seabream, native to Indian coastal waters, is widely distributed across the Indo-Pacific, from the Indian Ocean and South China Sea to Japan and Australia. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Swelling and internal bleeding in the brain, help this baby Donate For Health Donate Now Undo It is also a euryhaline species, which means it can adapt to varying salinities, making it ideal for brackishwater aquaculture. 'While the fish species has not yet entered the export market and is mainly consumed domestically, it has great aquaculture potential. The genome information helps us move closer to farming it commercially,' says Lal. At present, the fish is harvested from the wild during its breeding season in Nov and Dec. 'We simulate the same salinity and environmental conditions in our hatchery. Once we get the larva, we design specific feeds that can be supplied to farmers,' says Shekhar. The sequencing revealed about 26,900 protein-coding genes. 'Understanding the fish at the molecular level helps us improve traits like growth and disease resistance,' he says. The sequencing was done by isolating the DNA from a fish specimen and sequencing it using standard platforms. CIBA has earlier sequenced the genomes of Penaeus indicus (Indian white shrimp), grey mullet, red snapper, and Karimeen (pearl spot).


The Hindu
a day ago
- The Hindu
ICAR-CIBA successfully sequences genome of goldlined seabream
A team of researchers from the Central Institute of Brackishwater Aquaculture (ICAR-CIBA), Chennai, has successfully sequenced the genome of the goldlined seabream (Rhabdosargus sarba), locally known as matti vaayan in Tamil. This species is one of the most preferred edible fishes in India and has high domestic market demand. Being a euryhaline species, the goldlined seabream has strong potential for farming across a wide range of salinities and can be cultivated under various production systems, including ponds and cages. 'It is distinguished by its characteristic golden stripes and is prized for its premium-quality white meat. It is considered a promising candidate for expanding India's aquaculture sector,' a CIBA press release said. The availability of this high-quality, reference-level genome is a significant achievement that advances the overall understanding of the species. It paves the way for future research into biological characteristics, selective breeding programmes, broodstock management, ecological interactions, and adaptive evolution. Kuldeep K. Lal, Director of ICAR-CIBA, said the goldlined seabream's sequenced genome would provide valuable insights into its growth potential, reproductive biology, and metabolism. This resource is expected to support future efforts in the genetic improvement and breeding of the species, refining aquaculture methodologies to enhance both productivity and sustainability. The project was led by M.S. Shekhar, head of department and principal scientist. Other members of the team include Vinaya Kumar Katneni, Ashok Kumar Jangam, Raymond, and Kuldeep K. Lal.


The Hindu
a day ago
- The Hindu
CIBA scientists sequence genome of Matti Vaayan fish
A team of researchers from the Central Institute of Brackishwater Aquaculture (ICAR-CIBA), Chennai, has successfully sequenced the genome of the goldlined seabream (Rhabdosargus sarba), locally known as Matti Vaayan in Tamil. This species is one of the most preferred food fishes in India and has high demand in the domestic market. Being a euryhaline species, the goldlined seabream has strong potential for farming across a wide range of salinities and can be cultivated under various production systems, including ponds and cages. 'It is distinguished by its characteristic golden stripes and is prized for its premium-quality white meat. It is considered a promising candidate for expanding India's aquaculture sector,' a CIBA press release said. The availability of this high-quality, reference-level genome is a significant achievement that advances the overall understanding of the species. It paves the way for future research into its biological characteristics, selective breeding programmes, broodstock management, ecological interactions, and adaptive evolution. Insights into growth potential Kuldeep K. Lal, Director of ICAR-CIBA, said the sequenced genome of the goldlined seabream would provide valuable insights into its growth potential, reproductive biology, and metabolism. This genomic resource is expected to support future efforts in the genetic improvement and breeding of the species, refining aquaculture methodologies to enhance both productivity and sustainability. The genome sequencing project was led by M.S. Shekhar, Head of Department and Principal Scientist. Other members of the team include Vinaya Kumar Katneni, Ashok Kumar Jangam, Raymond, and Kuldeep K. Lal.