Researchers at U.S. university Texas A&M recently released a study concerning whole genome sequencing used in fish stock research, claiming that the scientific technique could be the key to stronger stock management plans and preventing overfishing.
The study, titled “How Fish Population Genomics Can Promote Sustainable Fisheries: A Road Map” and published in the Annual Review of Animal Biosciences, detailed how fish genomics – a laboratory procedure that determines the DNA sequence of a fish’s genome – reveals critical data, such as spawning conditions and migratory behaviors, to researchers. The additional data allows researchers to better distinguish separate populations within a stock and more precisely define management areas for them.
According to the study, fish stock assessments have historically operated under two key assumptions: Each fish stock is a closed unit, and data extrapolated from one part of a stock represents the entire stock.
However, some researchers are now advocating for the use of more flexible boundaries, such as via whole genome sequencing, that adapt to changes in fish populations and their habitats. With advanced tools, real-time management is now achievable, allowing for accurate identification of fish populations and assignment to proper management areas.
“Our experience is that with whole genome sequencing, you get the best resolution to distinguish different populations of marine fishes. Based on this, we can identify the most informative genetic markers which can then be used for large-scale testing,” Leif Andersson, the study’s lead author, said.
Useful information, according to Andersson, may include the types of waters fish are spawning in, helping to determine whether one fish population is genetically different from another and, therefore, requires a separate management plan.
The Texas A&M researchers found just that while formulating the study, conducting several case evaluations using whole genome sequencing.
For Atlantic herring, they identified seven major groups …
