Shrimp Genetics

Using a combination of the most advanced genomic methods and conventional genetics, our program aims to identify the individuals that are genetically faster growing and more resistant to disease. These individuals are used as parents in each new generation to improve the nucleus population and produce broodstock which better meets the needs and expectations of our customers.

Our selective breeding program is the world’s most scientifically documented genetic improvement program for P. vannamei shrimp, with an emphasis on developing populations of breeders with a high level of robustness to certain of the major diseases affecting the shrimp industry worldwide, such as EHP, WFS, WSSV, and AHPND.

Our stocks have a broad genetic base originating from multiple geographical sources, wild and domesticated, to which we refer to as ‘The Gene Supermarket’.

This genetic base, sourced from breeders in Colombia, Hawaii, and Venezuela, and from the wild populations in Costa Rica, Ecuador, El Salvador, Panamá, and Peru amongst others, increases the diversity of our stock and provides our team of geneticists with multiple options and a wider range of selection for breeding.

There are significant interactions between Genetics and Environment. The best animals for one environment – or management practices – are not necessarily the best for another.

We conduct continuous collaborative work with our partners and clients to develop and deliver lines that are the most adaptable to their environmental conditions. We produce specialized lines that are specially adapted to thrive in specific environments and balanced lines that combine the best of improved growth with robustness and disease resistance.

Biosecurity is the main priority in all our operations, as it is the core of the breeding program. Our strains are SPF certified by the University of Arizona (UAZ), and health surveillance is conducted with the chain of custody of a U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) accredited veterinarian.
Aligned with Benchmark’s to animal welfare, none of our facilities use eyestalk ablation.

Our sites in the Americas are safely isolated from other aquaculture productions and have only one biosecure entrance through their securely fenced perimeters. Access is controlled and restricted, and rigorous sanitary routines are carried out daily to ensure our strict levels of biosecurity.