Thermal induction of gynogenesis and triploidy in Atlantic salmon ( Salmo salar) and their potential interest for aquaculture

Abstract

Triploid and gynogenetic progenies were produced in Atlantic salmon with moderate thermal shocks (26–29°C) applied soon after fertilization. Yields of gynogenetics were high (60–70% of control at start feeding); gynogenetics proved to be all female and could be helpful in the establishment of populations of sex-reversed females to produce all-female livestock in that species. All-triploid groups were also obtained with a wide range of thermal treatments and good survival (66–89% of control at start feeding). Nevertheless, at the age of 2.5 years, triploids displayed lower survival and growth in weight than their control, which may limit their practical interest for aquaculture.