EpiBreedCharr - Epigenetic powered breeding in farmed Arctic charr

The current proposal has the broader objective of assessing the effect of including epigenetic information in aquaculture breeding programs.

More specifically, we will study whether the inclusion of the epigenetic profile of the breeding candidates in the selection process can assist in improving male fertility in farmed Arctic charr. An ongoing national breeding program has been pivotal for farming Arctic charr across Sweden. However, the highly variable reproductive success in captivity is a major bottleneck.

Epigenetic modifications such as methylation marks can affect key performance traits in animals, including ones related to fertility.

Notably, no study has ever attempted to use epigenome-wide information to guide breeding decisions in any aquaculture species.

In the current project, we will apply state-of-the-art sequencing technologies to gain in-depth knowledge about the methylome of Arctic charr sperm and detect regions that affect male fertility.

Thereafter a pilot study will be conducted in order to assess whether an improvement in the selection accuracy is possible when epigenetic information is used.

Overall, the current project is expected to result to substantial knowledge gain regarding the potential application of epigenetic information in aquaculture breeding programs.

Simultaneously, the project outcomes would be beneficial for farming Arctic charr in Sweden since an improvement in fertility will boost the expansion of the industry across the country.