Breeding is a fundamental process in improving species by leveraging the natural genetic variation within organisms. It involves selecting desirable traits and eliminating undesirable ones to enhance the genetic quality of future generations. Heredity ensures stability, while variation allows for change. Only mutations that arise from changes in genetic material are heritable, whereas those caused by environmental factors are not. The core of breeding lies in identifying and selecting heritable variations. By choosing individuals with favorable traits as parents, breeders can steadily improve the population over generations. This process often takes 10 to 20 years, as seen in the development of new fish varieties like Putoutou Pujiang No. 1, which took 15 years to be developed by Shanghai Fisheries University.
Breeding has been an essential practice in human agricultural and aquacultural activities for centuries. Even in ancient texts like the *Fish Culture Classic* attributed to Fan Li, breeding techniques were discussed. Breeding is not only a way to create new varieties but also the foundation for other breeding methods. Every successful breeding program requires careful selection at each stage, ensuring that only the best individuals are chosen to pass on their genes. Over time, even high-quality varieties may degrade, and breeding helps maintain their superior characteristics through purification and rejuvenation.
When selecting fish for breeding, several key traits are considered. These include economic value, such as growth rate, feed conversion efficiency, and ornamental appeal. Stress resistance is another important factor, including cold tolerance, disease resistance, and adaptability to harsh environments. Developmental performance focuses on body shape, weight, and maturity, while overall health and appearance are also evaluated.
There are various breeding methods, but the most common are population breeding and individual selection. Population breeding involves multiple generations of selective breeding, starting with original stock and gradually improving through artificial breeding, pond management, and ecological cultivation. This method emphasizes avoiding inbreeding, following strict propagation protocols, and using natural feeding practices. On the other hand, individual selection involves picking the best individuals from mixed populations, establishing families, and selecting only those with superior traits. This approach enhances genetic diversity and leads to the development of stable, high-quality breeds.
Through these methods, breeders ensure that fish populations remain healthy, resilient, and productive, meeting both commercial and ecological needs.
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