Posted in August 2009

Decoding the tuna genome

Posted on 14 August, 2009

Researchers from the Fisheries Research Agency, The University of Tokyo and Kyushu University are close to unraveling the genome sequence of the bluefin tuna, according to the agency.

Hoping to become the world's first to unravel the genome, the researchers have decoded about 60% of the genome and are expected to complete the entire sequence within the next few months.

Once they complete the genome, the agency hopes to use the data to establish a breeding program for bluefin tuna next year. And within the next 10 years, after identifying the relevant genes, they hope to establish a complete aquaculture system that can produce strong, fast-growing, disease-resistant, delicious fish.

Catches of bluefin tuna -- considered one of Japan's most popular popular delicacies -- have been declining worldwide. Stocks have fallen by as much as 90% in some waters, and conservation groups have warned that the Atlantic bluefin may disappear within three years if protective measures are not taken immediately.

As stocks decline, however, tuna farming is on the rise. In fiscal 2008, Japan produced about 8,000 tons of farm-raised bluefin tuna, an increase of 5,000 tons from three years earlier.

The researchers hope that unraveling the genome and creating an improved variety of bluefin tuna can lead to a further increase the numbers of farm-raised bluefin tuna.

Bluefin tuna at aquaculture facility operated by Fisheries Research Agency

Links:
- Japanese scientists to breed 'super tuna' [Telegraph]