Genome Manipulation Advances in Selected Aquaculture Organisms

Abstract

With the rising global demand for seafood and the challenges posed by overfishing and climate change, the aquaculture sector has become increasingly important in providing high-quality protein for human consumption. Although traditional selection breeding programs have made great strides in genetic improvement of aquaculture species over the past decades, faster and more precise breeding tools, such as genome manipulation, are needed for performance enhancement of aquaculture stock. This review presents a comprehensive overview of the current status of three major genome manipulation tools, including RNA interference (RNAi), gene transfer, and genome editing in aquaculture species, and discusses the advances made, challenges faced, and potential future directions of this fast-developing field. Taking catfish as an example, this paper reviews the specific applications of these techniques to improve traits such as growth, disease resistance, reproduction, and nutritional profiles in various commercially important fishes and crustaceans, highlighting successful applications and ongoing research efforts. We also propose CRISPR/Cas9-mediated multiplex genome editing for the knockout or replacement of multiple genes in parallel to improve multiple traits in fish. Collectively, this review provides insights into the evolving landscape of genome manipulation in aquaculture and sheds light on its implications for sustainable practices and responsible innovation.