Brazilian Fish, one of Brazil’s largest tilapia producers, announced it will use genome editing technology to accelerate genetic improvements in its fish stocks. The technology, which allows scientists to make precise changes to DNA, is expected to speed up the development of tilapia with traits such as improved disease resistance, faster growth rates and improved feed efficiency. It marks the first commercial-scale genetically edited tilapia in Brazil.

The company’s adoption of genome editing represents a shift toward advanced biotechnology in Brazil’s aquaculture industry. According to the company, genome editing could condense two decades of traditional breeding work into a single year, significantly accelerating genetic progress.

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Genome editing technology could significantly improve tilapia farming in Brazil, producing fish that grow faster and require less feed than those raised under current farming practices. A shorter grow-out period could reduce production costs, while improved feed efficiency could ease pressure on natural resources. Proponents also argue that these advances could ultimately benefit consumers by increasing the supply of affordable, nutritious fish.

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