Role of biotechnology in aquaculture in Taiwan. In：Y.C. Shang, P.S. Leung, C.S. Lee, M.S. Su and Liao, I C. (eds.)

Abstract

Over the years, the degradation of the environment and outbreaks of fish and shrimp diseases, coupled with high operating costs, have depressed the aquaculture industry in Taiwan. To revitalize the aquaculture industry in Taiwan, existing techniques should be improved and new methods developed to increase the productivity of aquaculture and to reduce the costs of operation. Recent advances in biotechnology have focused not only on establishing cryopreservation and cell culture, but also on the development of techniques for gene recombination and transplantation. This new technology is vastly different and more powerful than traditional genetic improvements. Scientists from all over the world are seeking applicable biotechnologies in a variety of fields. The successful application of biotechnology to aquaculture has been demonstrated in the laboratory by many countries. Preliminary studies of biotechnology in aquaculture in Taiwan include cryopreservation of gametes, induction of triploidy and diploid monosex species, disease diagnoses and vaccination, and gene transplantation in various species, including tilapia, milkfish, mullet, loach, black porgy, carp, grouper, eel, prawn, oyster, hard clam, and small abalone. There is a need to establish applicable biotechnologies to revitalize the aquaculture industry in Taiwan. Therefore, studies in biotechnology in Taiwan should focus on establishing gene pools by cryopreservation of gametes and embryos. developing sensitive disease diagnoses and vaccines, improving production through gene manipulation, and establishing regulations on biotechnology.