| dc.description.abstract | Xenogenesis is a reproduction technology that has been identified for hybrid catfish (♀ channel catfish, Ictalurus punctatus × ♂ blue catfish, I. furcatus) embryo production. The xenogeneic process can be accomplished by transplanting primordial germ cells (PGCs), spermatogonial stem cells (SSCs), or oogonial stem cells (OSCs), derived from a donor diploid fish into sterile recipients, which then enables the recipient fish to produce donor-derived gametes. The most widely researched form of xenogenesis for the hybrid catfish industry involves transplanting undifferentiated blue catfish cells into triploid channel catfish surrogates. However, there is potential for further technological advancement, particularly as efforts to increase sustainability and efficiency within the U.S. catfish industry continue. Therefore, several experiments were conducted to enhance the efficiency of hybrid catfish embryo production through xenogenesis.
The primary objectives of this thesis were to assess donor cell quantities and explore surrogate species options, The first study aimed to determine whether 80,000 or 100,000 blue catfish cells per fry impacted rates of xenogenesis in surrogate channel catfish. It was identified that 100,000 cells per fry did increase both proliferation and colonization of donor cells in surrogates. The second study also aimed to determine whether 80,000 or 100,000 cells per fry impacted xenogen output, but white catfish (Ameiurus catus) surrogates were used along with both blue catfish and channel catfish donor cells, respectfully. It was identified that the white catfish is a suitable surrogate for hybrid catfish xenogen production, 100,000 cells per fry does lead to increased cell colonization, and no donor species was superior to the other. The third study assessed the feasibility of utilizing the common carp (Cyprinus carpio) as a blue catfish sperm surrogate for hybrid catfish production implications. Common carp accepted undifferentiated blue catfish cells, which migrated to and colonized the anal fin, muscle, pectoral fin, and gonad. Donor cells did not migrate to the eye, liver, intestine, or heart. Overall, these findings will enhance the efficiency of germ cell transplantation for commercial-scale hybrid catfish production. | en_US |
