Genetic improvement by the application of technology and species selection
Introductory presentation: Prof.T.Lam, National University of Singapore
With rapid advances in the genomics, proteomic and bioinformatic sciences,
the impact of biotechnology on aquaculture will continue to increase. Already
we have seen promising developments in:
- transgenesis whereby fish with enhanced performance such as fast growth and increased disease resistance are produced;
- molecular diagnostics and vaccines of pathogens;
- molecular genetics and selection;
- microbial/microalgal genetic engineering for water quality management or as probiotics/feed supplements;
- reproductive and sex control;
- nuclear transplantation and cloning; and so on.
However, such developments also raise issues such as risks to human health and
the environment (Genetically Modified Organism issues), and ownership (Intellectual
Property issues). One of the latter concerns that is particularly relevant to
Asia region, is the marginalization of small-holders in rural areas, who are unable
to pay for such biotechnology advances.
In this session, some of the above developments and issues will be reviewed.
The objective is to obtain a better understanding and appreciation of biotechnology,
its potential to enhance aquaculture productivity, and its concerns.
List of speakers:
- Chairperson: Dr. E.Black
- Prof. T. Lam, National University of Singapore
- A. Magoulas, Institute of Marine Biology
of Crete, Greece
- Liu Shaojun, Hunan Normal University, China
- H. Komen, Wageningen University, The Netherlands
