Principles of Genetics and Breeding

12.1.6 Simple measures to avoid inbreeding

• The broodstocks in a hatchery should be particularly replaced periodically. Exchange of brood stocks between the local hatcheries can be done.
• Brood stocks of different age groups should be bred together. This help in reducing the chance of loss of some valuable alleles due to genetic drift.
• Natural stocks may be inducted in to the hatchery periodically to increase the heterozygosity.
• The pedigree record of brood stock should be maintained to avoid the mating of close relatives.
• Cultured populations should be identified using a proper marking system. Females and males have to be originated from two different lines.
• Individual fish with poor constitutional conditions or anatomical abnormalities should be culled.