Oyster farmers to benefit from new genetic tool

OYSTER farmers are set to benefit from a genetic tool that will help prevent disease outbreaks and improve yields.

The technology will enable hatcheries to assess the genetic make-up of their oysters, so they can select animals with desirable characteristics from which to breed.

Scientists at the University of Edinburgh have developed a chip loaded with DNA – each carrying a specific fragment of the oyster’s genetic code.

Using a tiny sample of DNA from each oyster, the chip can measure small genetic variations that are linked to physical traits.