wo separate studies by scientists led by the Roslin Institute of the
University of Edinburgh in Scotland and the University of Santiago de
Compostela in Spain found new information about the oyster'sgenomethat
can help improve its selective breeding approaches. The results can
potentially help achieve food security and sustainability of the oyster
industry.

Scientists from the Roslin Institute in collaboration with the Sorbonne
University in France came up with two high-quality reference genomes
that provided details down to the chromosome level of the European flat
oyster that can be used by other scientists to conduct research on the
conservation, restoration, andaquacultureof the species. They were able
to identify two areas of the oyster genome significantly associated with
faster growth that, when utilized, has the potential to genetically
improve the shellfish's growth.

The second study by the University of Santiago de Compostela with the
help of Roslin Institute aimed to compare the genome of oysters not
previously exposed to/Bonamia ostreae/, a deadly parasite. These oysters
have not had long-term effects from the parasite and were ideal to use
when identifying variations in the oyster DNA region associated with
resilience against the parasite, which they later found. This area can
be further investigated and used for research to improve the oyster's
tolerance to the parasite.

Results of both studies are important in improving oyster breeding
programs to enhance desired traits and help expand the oyster industry
in Scotland.

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