University of Queensland researcher maps barramundi genetics

University of Queensland PhD candidate Jessica Hintzsche has developed a highly detailed genetic map for barramundi, offering new possibilities for the aquaculture industry. The research, conducted at the Queensland Alliance for Agriculture and Food Innovation (QAAFI), revealed a rare genetic pattern where males and females reshuffle DNA through recombination in different, non-overlapping parts of their chromosomes.

In Australian barramundi, females recombine DNA near the chromosome centromere, while males recombine exclusively at the chromosome ends. Because barramundi can change sex during their lifetime, breeders may be able to influence the sex of the fish and the specific genomic segments passed to the next generation.

This discovery allows for more targeted breeding to enhance desirable traits such as disease resistance and robust growth. Hintzsche noted that by focusing on the chromosome chunks created by recombination, breeders can accelerate genetic improvement while simultaneously conserving genetic diversity within breeding populations.