ARS | Publication request: Definition of the USDA103 Strain of Channel Catfish (Ictalurus punctatus)

Submitted to: Animal Genetics
Publication Type: Peer Reviewed Journal
Publication Acceptance Date: January 28, 2007
Publication Date: April 1, 2007
Citation: Waldbieser, G.C., Wolters, W.R. 2007. Definition of the USDA103 Strain of Channel Catfish (Ictalurus punctatus). Animal Genetics. 38:180-183.

Interpretive Summary: Management of genetic groups of channel catfish is difficult due to the lack of obvious physical differences between individuals. We developed a genetic identification system based on differences in DNA sequence between catfish populations. Using DNA technology, specific DNA markers called “microsatellites” were identified in the catfish genome, and DNA sequence differences at the microsatellites were determined between USDA103 strain and commercial catfish. Using microsatellite markers, we were able to distinguish USDA103 strain fish from a mixed population. This technology has been useful in the U.S. catfish industry to help producers manage USDA103 strain catfish.

Technical Abstract: Management of genetic groups of channel catfish is difficult due to the lack of obvious physical differences between individuals. We developed a genotyping system that used microsatellite allele inheritance to define the USDA103 research strain of catfish. Genotypes from individual USDA103 and commercially grown catfish were obtained using eight microsatellite loci, and the probability of falsely including a non-USDA103 catfish as a USDA103 was 0.0065. A blinded experiment, in which six USDA103 strain catfish were mixed with 24 non-USDA103 fish, demonstrated our ability to correctly identified USDA103 fish based on microsatellite genotype. This DNA-based fingerprinting system has been used in the catfish industry for identification and management of USDA103 strain catfish.