Validating the commercial potential of genetically modified plant oils in aquaculture via full life-cycle replacement of marine feed ingredients

Fish-farming (aquaculture) plays a key role in producing animal protein is produced for human consumption. Aquaculture plays a vital role in feeding the world, and as the number of mouths to feed increases, its role in providing nutritious food continues to grow. Fish farming is more efficient than any terrestrial animal production system, but the Achilles heel of aquaculture is the requirement for omega-3 fish oils in the feeds of marine and salmonid species - this is because fish lack the capacity to make these fatty acids, and if they are not provided in their diet, the resulting product is devoid of these health-beneficial fats. Pressure on the oceanic stocks which are used to produce these fish oils has resulted in increased demand for an alternative source of fish oils for use in aquaculture. Our project is to evaluate, using aquaculture industry parameters, the feasibility of using our GM camelina oil (and meal) as a replacement in the commercial production of farmed salmon.