Leveraging transformative ‘omics technologies to alleviate barriers to American shellfish production

PI: Gavery, Mackenzie (NOAA Northwest Fisheries Science Center)
Co-PI(s): Vadopalas, Brent (Washington Sea Grant) : Roberts, Steven (University of Washington)
Start Year: 2020 | Duration: 2 years
Partners: NOAA, Pacific Hybreed, University of Washington, Washington Sea Grant

Project Abstract:

Expansion and profitability of the U.S. shellfish aquaculture industry is limited by problems with poor performance of triploid oysters in suboptimal environments induced by changing environmental conditions and other anthropogenic factors (e.g. ocean acidification, hypoxia, temperature). While there are considerable advantages to triploid oysters such as enhanced growth and improved product quality due to sterility, the mechanisms underlying their lack of resilience in changing environmental conditions are poorly understood. The overarching goal of the proposed research is to utilize ‘omics technologies to uncover fundamental genomic and physiological differences between diploid and triploid Pacific oysters leading to low survival in subpar grow-out environments, and apply this information to screen genetic lines for resiliency to increase sustainable commercial aquaculture production. The proposed research is an ideal fit for The National Oceanographic Partnership Program as this project will facilitate partnerships between NOAA Northwest Fisheries Science Center, University of Washington and the shellfish industry and will help lead to substantial expansion of oyster production in the United States.