A tilapia enters a CT-machine for body scanning carried out in a small-scale prefeasibility study conducted in 2021 and 2022.
GenoMar
The Norwegian Research Council has awarded an innovation grant to GenoMar, the world's largest tilapia genetics company, to develop imaging technologies and machine learning to improve fillet yield in tilapia through genetic selection.
As confirmed by Diones Almeida, Director of Breeding Operations in Latin America at GenoMar, the project will take place at GenoMar Genetics' breeding facilities in Brazil, where thousands of fish are already being raised. The project, 50% funded by the Council (NOK 2.6 million), will conclude when the breeding process is repeated over 3–4 generations.
Specifically, the researchers will investigate the characteristics of tilapia carcasses using computed tomography (CT), technology that uses X-rays and computers to create detailed, cross-sectional images, along with advanced algorithms.
Computed tomography (CT) allows for a detailed examination of live animals without the need for slaughter and provides highly detailed and accurate 3D measurements of traits such as muscle volume and proportions. Additionally, tilapia bone and skin density allow for better differentiation of tissues and organs compared to other species.
"By employing genomics and line breeding methods, we have a very powerful toolbox to make a real difference in the industry in the coming year," Anders Skaarud, Senior Researcher and head of the project at GenoMar, assured.
This line of research has already been tested in poultry and pigs. If GenoMar succeeds in this project, running from 2025 to 2027, tilapia will be the first species to include fillet yield using CT for fish breeding.
"Our goal is to develop genetic products that yield more edible meat, reduce the cost of production, and make tilapia protein more affordable," Alejandro Tola Alvarez, Director Breeding & Genetics at GenoMar, added.