Current status and application of largemouth bass (Micropterus salmoides) germplasm resources

Largemouth bass (Micropterus salmoides, LB) is an important aquaculture and fishing species in the world. LB has been introduced into China since 1983, and its aquaculture production has increased year by year. The total yield of LB in China reached 802,486 tons in 2022, ranking seventh in China's freshwater fish aquaculture. However, the LB is facing threats such as degradation of germplasm resources and disease susceptibility due to limitations in the scale of introduction, coupled with the effects of high-density aquaculture, inbreeding, and species hybridization. This paper summarizes the current status of LB germplasm resources, variety genetic improvement, nutrition and fodder, aquaculture mode and diseases, and circulation and processing. This paper also provides recommendations on how to fully explore and utilize the existing germplasm resources of LB; culture new LB germplasm that combines excellent resistance and growth characteristics through innovations in breeding techniques; reduce the morbidity rate and improve the efficiency of cultured LB through the optimization of fodder formulations and innovation of aquaculture modes; and shift the processing of LB toward standardization, efficient nutrition and safety through the integration of high-tech and large-scale production. This paper provides a reference for the sustainable and healthy development of the LB industry.