New Project Enhances Crustacean Genes For Sustainable Seafood 

An Israeli fish farming company is collaborating with Ben Gurion University and a leading biotechnology firm to develop gene editing technology for crustaceans that will increase the sustainability of seafood production.

The partnership, spearheaded by Colors Farm fish farming company, aims to enhance desirable traits such as growth rate, disease resistance and environmental adaptation among giant freshwater prawn, white leg shrimp and red swamp crayfish.

Prof. Amir Sagi of the Ben Gurion University, a world-renowned crustacean researcher, will lead the R&D process for the upcoming gene editing platform; Colors will breed crustaceans with specific traits that are required for gene editing; and finally, Evogene biotech firm will facilitate the gene editing of the crustaceans.

The global demand for seafood continues to rise, with the worldwide shrimp market expected to grow from $22 billion in 2022 to $88 billion by 2028 alone, increasing the need for sustainable aquaculture solutions. 

“Gene editing is a powerful tool that can enhance the economics and sustainability of crustacean production. We believe this collaboration will lead to significant advances in the aquaculture industry,” said Prof. Sagi. 

Colors Farm CEO Ran Epstein added: “This collaboration represents a major step forward for aquaculture. Gene editing has the power to revolutionize crustacean production, and we are excited to work with Evogene and BGU to turn this potential into reality.”

Evogene CPO Nir Arbel also praised the new partnership as one with the potential to open up the gene editing market to many additional agri-tech companies.