New char breeding project

The project recognises that Arctic char is gaining momentum as a sustainable and nutritious alternative to other commercially successful farmed salmonid species such as salmon and trout.

“Developing sustainable food and protein sources continues to be a key economic factor for many countries around the world. Aquaculture is poised to be an increasingly important contributor to this landscape. With the rise of recirculating aquaculture systems (RAS), the benefits in growing char relative to other salmonids continues to gain interest, given their natural preference for higher densities,” said Doug Hotson, General Manager of IWL.

The company carries out a breeding approach managing two founder populations of broodstock. With the implementation of a modern selective breeding programme and development of custom genomic tools tailored to Arctic char, CAT will lead the company in selecting for the best traits from both stocks, with the hope to give IWL a competitive edge.

“CAT [is] delighted to be partnering with Icy Waters to optimise and accelerate their genetic improvement programme. With the growing appetite for Artic char, it is an exciting and opportune time for the CAT breeding team to partner with Icy Waters to accelerate the rate of genetic gains for key traits in Artic char to improve efficiency, production, and quality,” said Klara Verbyla, Vice President of Genetics at CAT.

IWL has been supplying its Yukon Gold Ova to markets for the past 30 years.

Hotson said that CAT was chosen as a partner to help IWL implement a family-based breeding programme. 

“The world of fish breeding and genetics is a complex and challenging task, and that is why we chose to work with the expert team at CAT. Working with their diversified team of genetics and breeding professionals will enable IWL to continue to be a leading supplier of ova to satisfy growing global demand for our delicious