Project Number: 5358-31000-002-00
Project Type: Appropriated

Start Date: Mar 01, 2005
End Date: Feb 28, 2010

Objective:
Conduct research on the quantitative and molecular genetics of oysters leading to improvement in broodstock management and selective breeding for enhanced production efficiency and product quality. Develop reference families, molecular genetic markers and elucidate key genes and sequence information for traits of economic importance. Assess genetic diversity of potential germplasm resources.

Approach:
Utilize traditional and molecular genetic techniques to estimate the heritability and genetic correlation structure and to map quantitative trait loci for economically important traits such as growth/rate efficiency, reproduction, survival, disease resistance and product quality. Utilize this new information to integrate marker-assisted selection and traditional phenotypic approaches to provide the shellfish industry with improved genetic stock. Coordinate activities with, and utilize the genetic resources of the Molluscan Broodstock Program at the Hatfield Marine Sciences Center. Explore utility of non-native germplasm for the identification and incorporation of important traits and genes for pacific shellfish production. FY02 Program Increase $216,000. Add 1 SY. FY04 Program Increase $120,783. Replacing 5358-31000-001-00D (2/05).