specialized techniques needed for such improvement programs may be 

 developed. Research would be initiated on the genetics of 

 cultured species so that strains possessing desired characteristics 

 may be developed; emphasis would be on increased survival rate, 

 rate of gain, efficiency of gain and disease resistance. Research 

 would include development of special procedures to maintain genetic 

 integrity of intermixed wild and hatchery-produced stocks. Work is 

 required to: 



o Establish registers describing the characteristics of 

 important strains of major aquaculture species 



o Establish broodstock selection programs to develop improved 

 strains 



o Prepare manuals and courses on genetic management of 

 broodstocks 



o Develop the capacity to test strains through centralized 

 evaluation of broodstock 



o Investigate the application of hybridization to the 

 development of improved broodstock 



o Investigate gamete preservation methods and other 



techniques to provide a continuous source of fertilized 

 eggs throughout the year 



o Develop improved technology for assessment of resistance to 

 specific fish diseases - - - - 



Nutrition and diets - ' ■■ • : : :■ ■ -■ -.. ■ / hn^:- .;-■.-.■■ -y.i 



The nutritional requirements of cultured species throughout their 

 life cycles would be determined. Improved nutrition and diet 

 formulation for cultured species, including increased feed 

 utilization and the development of least cost diets is needed. 

 Specifically, research is needed to: 



o Define the basic nutritional requirements of cultured 

 species 



o Develop least-cost feeds based on commonly available 



ingredients for various sizes and ages of cultured species 



o Define feeding techniques for efficient and effective 

 production of various sizes and ages of cultured species 



o Identify man-made and natural toxins, growth inhibitors, 

 and contaminants in feed ingredients, and develop 

 techniques for their prevention, removal, or detoxification 



o Define the relationship between fish health and nutrition 



52 



