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Mussel seeds. (Photo: CENPAT)
New service designed for Chilean mussel farming
(CHILE, 10/10/2013)
Researchers at the Universidad Austral de Chile (UACh) aim to develop the basis for implementing the genetic identification service for mussel (Mytilus chilensis) larvae using high-fidelity molecular techniques.
The initiative, led by researcher Marcela Astorga, is funded by the Innovation Fund for Competitiveness (FIC- R) of the regional government of Los Lagos and supported by the Association of Chilean Mussel Farming AG (AmiChile) and Shellfish Mollusc Farmers Association of Calbuco AG.
In addition, it has the active participation of four companies with extensive experience in the mussel farming sector.
As part of this project, researchers will seek to select a cost-effective molecular technique for the industry and design the technology package for the installation of a new analysis service. They also want to create a strategy for dissemination and promotion of service to related agents.
Another goal of the project, developed at the Institute of Aquaculture of UACh Headquarters in Puerto Montt, is to help to provide support for decision-making to private and public agents.
It is expected that users will be groups of artisan fishermen, small-scale farmers, rearing centres and agents related to industry and public policymakers.
Different molecular tools have already been assessed, some of which make it possible to discriminate between mussel, Magellan mussel and giant mussel larvae, the University reported.
Currently, the industry uses microscopy techniques to evaluate the presence of larvae but this method is very dependent on the analyst's ability to differentiate the larval morphology. In contrast, molecular techniques give more accurate results, which will facilitate the decision-making of public and private agents related to this stage of the production process.
The research team of UACh plans to organize working technical meetings with industry trade associations and public organizations related to the industry as part of the project result release and transfer activities.
By Analia Murias
[email protected]
www.seafood.media
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