ICAR-CIBA Decodes Genome of Goldlined Seabream

### Quick Summary
– Researchers at the Central Institute of brackishwater Aquaculture (ICAR-CIBA),Chennai,have successfully sequenced the genome of the goldlined seabream (*Rhabdosargus sarba*),also known as *matti vaayan* in Tamil.
– This fish species is highly regarded for its premium-quality white meat and significant domestic market demand. It is a euryhaline species suitable for farming across various salinities and production systems such as ponds and cages.
– The sequencing provides a high-quality, reference-level genome allowing enhanced understanding of biological characteristics, selective breeding programs, broodstock management, ecological interactions, and adaptive evolution.- ICAR-CIBA Director Kuldeep K. Lal highlighted that this resource will aid research into growth potential, reproductive biology, metabolism, genetic enhancement efforts for aquaculture productivity and sustainability.
– The project was led by principal scientist M.S. Shekhar along with team members Vinaya Kumar Katneni, Ashok Kumar Jangam, Raymond Robinson Paulraj Jeya Rajkumar Chandrasekaran Chinnathambi.

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### Indian Opinion Analysis
The accomplished sequencing of the goldlined seabream genome marks an critically important milestone for India’s aquaculture sector. As a preferred edible species with high domestic demand and adaptability to diverse farming environments such as ponds or cages under varied salinity conditions (*euryhaline nature*), this advancement promises practical applications ranging from efficient breeding programs to improved productivity methodologies.

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