Use of adapted maternal strain in tilapia production (Oreochromis niloticus)

The world fish production has been growing in response to the great demand for healthy food and Brazil has the conditions to export fish. However, the development of the chain is necessary, with the use of production techniques and tested genetic material. Tilapia is an excellent breeder, however studies on specialized varieties need to be conducted. In view of the above, the present study aimed to evaluate the applicability of the MGTUFLAP variety as a matrix in diallel crossings with two commercial varieties widely spread in the territory and the performance of the offspring. Data from offspring originating from nine distinct genetic groups produced in the 2015/2016 aquaculture year were collected in the fish farming sector of the Federal University of Lavras. All animals were weighed and had their morphometry measured, then slaughtered and processed in order to obtain the weight of the cuts and processing residues. The general and specific combining ability and the maternal effect were estimated and the morphometric averages, cuts and yields were grouped using the Skott Knott method (p<0.05). In general, the genetic groups descending from MGTUFLAP variety showed worse performance for head size and filet weight, but obtained higher filet yield and lower carcass yield. The adapted variety showed good general and specific combining ability, as well as better maternal effect on the traits of head weight and filet yield. We conclude that the variety MGTUFLAP presents good results in crossbreeding and the females are an excellent option for maternal line.