Molecular and biochemical tricks of the research trade: -omics approaches in finfish aquaculture

Abstract

Profitability of fish farming can be undermined by a suite of biological constraints. Effects of these constraints on the biology of the animal, the functioning of a tissue, or the quality of the final filleted product can be detected with very sensitive hi-tech approaches, grouped by the term ‘-omics’. These -omics technologies further present powerful tools for the genetic selection of diverse traits and, as such, will contribute substantially to the future development of the aquaculture sector. Sustainability issues of importance to the industry, such as environmental impacts, use of therapeutants, fish health management and fishmeal replacement, can again be aided, at least in part, through the effective use of -omics technologies. It thus appears that -omics technologies may be a key tool for the responsible growth of intensive aquaculture in the 21st century. In this paper we review the current status of -omics technologies and the potential for application within the aquaculture industry.