Advancing genomic selection for climate resilience

As environmental variability increases, breeding programs must adapt to select for resilience alongside traditional performance traits. We've integrated genomic selection tools into our vannamei and monodon programs to accelerate progress.

Using SNP markers validated across multiple farm environments, we're identifying genetic variants associated with thermal tolerance, salinity adaptation, and immune response. This approach allows us to rank candidates earlier in the breeding cycle and reduce generation intervals.

Initial results show a 15-20% increase in predicted breeding values for heat tolerance, with field validation underway across Thailand and Vietnam partner sites. The next generation will undergo challenge testing to confirm correlation with survival under stress.

Genomic tools don't replace phenotypic evaluation, but they provide a faster feedback loop for traits that are difficult or expensive to measure directly. Our goal is to deliver broodstock that perform reliably in real-world conditions, regardless of seasonal extremes.