Patent in process
A real-time PCR–based method to identify female sturgeon (Acipenseridae) between 1 and 2 years of age, enabling early and accurate selection to optimise caviar production.
An innovative genetic technique that analyses a small tissue or blood sample using real-time PCR to detect sex-specific markers in juvenile sturgeon.
It eliminates the need to wait between 8 and 20 years, or to rely on invasive ultrasound techniques, to determine sex. This significantly reduces feeding, maintenance and space costs associated with rearing non-productive males.
A minimally invasive sample is collected.
A real-time PCR protocol is performed to detect female-specific genetic markers.
Sex is classified with high accuracy.
Enables very early breeding decisions (at 1–2 years of age).
Drastic reduction in feeding and intensive management costs.
Non-invasive and low-stress for animals: only a small sample is required.
Automatable and scalable process for aquaculture operations.
Early selection of females for high-value caviar production by Caviar Riofrío and others.
Efficient planning of sex ratios to improve productivity in sturgeon farming operations.
Sectors: Fisheries and aquaculture sector, Innovation management
Research lines: Food Quality and Safety
Research sublines: Quality and traceability