Saving Seafood

Genome sequencing may be key to effective fishery stock management, US research finds

January 2, 2024 — Researchers at U.S. university Texas A&M recently released a study concerning whole genome sequencing used in fish stock research, claiming that the scientific technique could be the key to stronger stock management plans and preventing overfishing.

The study, titled “How Fish Population Genomics Can Promote Sustainable Fisheries: A Road Map” and published in the Annual Review of Animal Biosciences, detailed how fish genomics – a laboratory procedure that determines the DNA sequence of a fish’s genome – reveals critical data, such as spawning conditions and migratory behaviors, to researchers. The additional data allows researchers to better distinguish separate populations within a stock and more precisely define management areas for them.

Read the full article at SeafoodSource

US officials to use eDNA to test for harmful invasive species in Columbia River Basin

December 30, 2024 — The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) plans to use environmental DNA (eDNA) to detect invasive species that can harm native salmon populations in the Columbia River Basin, according to a solicitation posted by the agency on 16 December.

eDNA is genetic material, such as tissue cells, mucus, or urine, that is shed by an organism in its environment. After collecting water samples, scientists can conduct lab tests to detect eDNA and determine whether a species is present in a given habitat.

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Japanese studies advance use of eDNA in estimating fish populations

July 17, 2020 — A recent test in Japan using environmental DNA (eDNA) to survey eel populations in rivers achieved similar detection rates to electro-shock fishing – without killing eels – and another test, on jack mackerel, improved estimation accuracy.

Molecular analysis of DNA left in the environment has proven to be an effective tool for detecting the presence of species, and is being applied more frequently in place of traditional survey fishing. It usually uses the polymerase chain reaction (PCR) process – a process also used in the COVID-19 antibody test – to rapidly duplicate genetic material to a quantity that can be effectively detected and identified. It has the advantage that it does not disturb or kill the fish – important for endangered species.

Read the full story at Seafood Source