Xelect introduced a new GeneXpertise service, a one-stop genetic broodstock health check for trout producers. 

“While we’re best known for providing expert breeding programs for some of the world’s leading aquaculture companies, we also know that there are hundreds of smaller producers who want to get started with genetics, but don’t yet need a full management service. They just want a bit of practical help to keep their broodstock’s sustainability on track,” the company said. For a modest, fixed price, GeneXpertise customers will get advice on genetic best practices, a detailed report on the genetic health of their population along with guidance on which crosses to avoid and which to make. 

Trout are highly fecund, so without genetic management, they are extremely susceptible to inbreeding. A single female can produce thousands of juveniles. This rapidly leads to “inbreeding depression”, a loss of genetic variation, resulting in increased deformity, reduced vigor and poor survival. Once that happens there’s no way back, without purchasing new broodstock animals from a different source. 

“Xelect’s experts can help you develop your genetics roadmap and set you on course for the years to come. For example, we can check the genetic health and selection suitability of your broodstock population, or we can provide direct recommendations for your next stripping season. After that you'll be perfectly placed to improve the sustainability and performance of your breeding program,” said Xelect CEO, Ian Johnston.  

“GeneXpertise is a very cost-effective way to give your broodstock a boost. It’s clearly not a replacement for our full breeding program services, but it allows many producers access to a highly specialized team of experts at the scale that’s right for them. It’s also really quick – just a few weeks from start to finish,” said Xelect director of operations, Tom Ashton.

Xelect has also developed a free online 2 Minute Broodstock Genetic Health Check to help business owners get a sense of how they are doing, and what they should look out for. Full details of GeneXpertise can be found at xelect-genetics.com/genexpertise/.