New centre offers gene editing to shrimp farmers
The Centre for Aquaculture Technologies (CAT) has opened a Shrimp Genetics Innovation Centre in San Diego, California, effectively quadrupling its shrimp research capacity.
CAT said the facility features a cutting-edge genome editing lab, along with extra tank space, and sets the stage for revolutionising shrimp genetic performance and accelerating next generation breeding through the application of innovative genome editing techniques.
Genome editing allows for the precise and rapid recreation of changes that would occur in nature, said the organisation, which added that it is committed to helping shrimp producers do more with less through the development and application of genome editing technology and methodology, which can solve problems that conventional breeding methods are unable to address and substantially accelerate the pace of genetic improvement.
Boosting efficiency
Facility manager Matt Stone said: “The increase in rearing and research capacity means we are even better prepared to deliver innovations to boost efficiency in the shrimp industry through genome editing. Our team is excited to be working in this new space and looks forward to helping clients achieve their goals.”
CAT chief executive Dr John Buchanan said: “With this investment, we have further solidified our position as a leader in the delivery of impactful genetic solutions to help shrimp producers feed the world more efficiently.”
The company said that by opening this facility at its San Diego location, the staff of the shrimp centre can benefit from a synergistic relationship with the CAT Finfish Genetics Innovation Centre.
The new facility is dedicated to the memory of Dr Richard H Towner, an exceptional researcher in the field of genetics who served as a trusted advisor to CAT. Dr Towner's invaluable contributions to the aquaculture industry and his mentorship of numerous researchers have greatly propelled advancements in the field.
As well as San Diego, CAT has research facilities in two locations, Victoria and Souris, in Prince Edward Island, Atlantic Canada.
