Generating a reference genome assembly for Arctic charr using long-read sequencing

Last changed: 08 December 2021
A man holding a char in his hands. Photo.

The current proposal project aims to boost the Swedish Arctic charr breeding program through the construction of a reference genome assembly. Modern aquaculture breeding programs rely on DNA information to guide selection decisions. A critical resource for the successful implementation of the above is the availability of a reference genome.

Genome assemblies have repeatedly proven to be invaluable in practically every kind of living organism, with the most highlighted case being the human genome project where the benefit to cost ratio far surpassed any prior expectations. Currently, no reference genome is available for any population of Arctic charr worldwide.

In the current project we will use state-of-the-art sequencing technologies in order to construct a genome assembly for Arctic charr originating from the national Swedish breeding program. Substantial knowledge is expected to be gained with the potential to shed light in all sorts of critical biological functions and form the cornerstone upon which future efforts for promoting the sustainable development of the related farming industry will be based. Taking into account that the national breeding program has been responsible for disseminating improved genetic material across the country, the gained knowledge is expected to benefit the entire Swedish Arctic charr farming sector promoting its sustainability.

Partners involved

Main Applicant:

  • Christos Palaiokostas, Department of Animal Breeding and Genetics, VH-Faculty at SLU.

Co-applicants: 

  • Anti Vasemägi, Department of Aquatic Resources, NJ-Faculty at SLU,
  • Henrik Jeuthe, Department of Animal Breeding and Genetics, VH-Faculty at SLU.

Facts:

Start and end date: 2022-01 to 2022-12

The project is funded by SLU Aquaculture, which support cross-faculty collaborations to further strengthen aquaculture research at SLU. Read more about SLU Aquaculturecurrent research projects and upcoming calls.