The NRSP-8 Aquaculture Genomics Program is a collaborative initiative within the broader NRSP-8 program (National Research Support Project 8), which focuses on improving animal genomics. This specific branch is dedicated to advancing genomic resources, tools, and research for the aquaculture industry. By focusing on genomics, the program aims to enhance breeding practices, improve disease resistance, optimize growth rates, and contribute to sustainable aquaculture practices.
The NRSP-8 Aquaculture Genomics Program advances aquaculture sustainability by developing genomic resources like reference genomes, genetic markers, and bioinformatics tools for key species such as salmon, trout, catfish, tilapia, striped/white bass, oysters, and shrimp. It promotes selective breeding to enhance growth, disease resistance, and adaptability, fostering collaboration across academia, government, and industry. By creating open-access databases such as AquaMine (https://aquamine.elsiklab.missouri.edu/), it provides valuable resources for researchers and practitioners, supporting the growth of sustainable aquaculture that minimizes environmental impact. The program outcomes enhance food security, reduce environmental pressures, and improve industry profitability by creating more resilient and productive aquaculture stocks.
The NRSP-8 Aquaculture Genomics Program is an essential driver for innovation in aquaculture, supporting both research and practical advances in sustainable food production and hosts an Aquaculture Genomics Workshop every year at the International Plant and Animal Genome Conference ( https://www.intlpag.org/PAG32/).
The renewed NRSP8: Genomic Capacity: Building Applied Genomic Capacity for Animal Industries (Duration: 10/01/2023 to 09/30/2028) has three new objectives:
1. Extending genomics capacity to a broader range of Animal Science stakeholders.
2. Supporting capacity to integrate genomic and biological data.
3. Education, training and outreach to develop a data-savvy workforce.