Richard L. Fisher, CEO of Red Hills Fishery, LLC, and The Center for Aquaculture Technologies (CAT) are excited to unveil a significant discovery - the identification of multiple, naturally occurring genetic indicators that predict the growth of Florida strain Largemouth bass to trophy size. This
breakthrough, resulting from the analysis of millions of genomic markers, signifies a remarkable achievement in global sportfish research.
Through this joint effort, Red Hills Fishery has unlocked the potential of these innate genetic markers, paving the way for the breeding of a groundbreaking line of TITAN MAXX™ fingerlings. These fingerlings are bred from parent fish carrying a significant number of the newly discovered trophy DNA markers, ensuring the passage of these markers to their offspring. This approach represents a noteworthy advancement in managing trophy-sized Largemouth bass populations in both private and public (federal/state) waters.
With technical support from CAT, renowned experts in genetic services for aquaculture, Red Hills can now also identify which existing bass carry the markers. This is accomplished through the analysis of a small tissue sample taken from any existing Florida strain Largemouth bass now living in either private or public waters. This innovative technique introduces fresh possibilities for conserving and managing bass populations.
"The unveiling of this remarkable discovery is a testament to Red Hills’ continuing dedication to advancing the field of Largemouth bass aquaculture, " stated Paul Tudor Jones II, owner of Red Hills Fishery, LLC. "The identification of the natural genetic markers, which drive the growth of Florida strain Largemouth bass to trophy size, revolutionizes Red Hills’ existing
breeding program; it also further solidifies the bridge between science and bass conservation, all the while paving the way for further growth enhancement across a myriad of bass populations."
“It is exciting to see the results of this genomic study so rapidly become commercially available, holistically improving the bass genetics available for recreational bass stocking,” said John Buchanan, CEO of CAT.
Integrating these breakthrough findings with Red Hills' proven family-based breeding program also propels enhancement in the performance of both TITAN BASS® and TITAN MAXX™ bass in ways previously unexplored. This accomplishment reflects the commitment of Red Hills Fishery and The Center for Aquaculture Technologies to advancing aquaculture practices and revolutionizing the genetics of trophy-size Largemouth bass.