This SBIR Phase I research will establish reliable technology to produce tetraploid broodstock of Pacific white shrimp (L. vannamei) using a new, Automated Polyploid Induction System (APIS). We will determine optimal values for tetraploidy induction based on three parameters: time post-fertilization to start shock, shock intensity, and shock duration. These values will allow us to fully develop and apply APIS during Phase II. Tetraploid broodstock thus produced will be used to produce sterile triploid seedstock during Phase II, when their commercial performance will be assessed. Since triploid seedstock are sterile, this technology will protect our investments in stock improvements. Farmed shrimp production has stagnated since 1990 due primarily to viral diseases. Use of hatchery produced, disease-free and -resistant stocks will reduce reliance on wild-caught stocks, the primary source of shrimp diseases. However, genetic improvement of domesticated shrimp stocks requires substantial financial investments. Technology that protects these investments is essential for attracting capital. Once this technology is available, investments in shrimp genetics will follow. We will position our company for expansion by being at the forefront of polyploidy applications in shrimp culture, and by protecting our investments in our shrimp stocks.
Anticipated Results/Potential Commercial Applications of Research: Successful mass-production of fertile tetraploid shrimp broodstock, and sterile triploid shrimp seedstock will allow us to accelerate investments in developing genetically improved shrimp stocks. We will then sell only tetraploid/diploid pairs of SPR/SPF Pacific white shrimp broodstock to hatcheries worldwide. With these, our customers will produce only sterile triploid progeny for growout of food-grade shrimp, but will be unable to establish breeding populations from our improved shrimp stocks. In addition, triploidy may also confer improved stock performance traits including faster growth and/or increased disease resistance. These unique values will attract capital and allow us to greatly expand our company.
