| Summary: | The aim is to investigate the effect of temperature on reproductive development in maiden and repeat spawning farmed Atlantic salmon. Through this research we hope to understand the molecular mechanisms that contribute to, or cause reproductive failure in maiden spawning fish. Salmon hatcheries in Australia can experience variable and unpredictable egg survival which could threaten the long term stability of the industry. While broodstock age and rearing temperature have been identified as factors that may affect egg survival, the molecular basis for reduced egg quality is poorly understood and has not been systematically investigated. Maiden and repeat spawning fish were reared on a profile that simulated either a cool or warm summer. During the reproductive season fish were periodically sacrificed to determine the affect of stock age and temperature on gene expression, focusing on genes responsible for egg shell and yolk formation. This study addresses basic biological questions on egg development in salmonid fish maturing under the growth-accelerating conditions of the warm Southern Hemisphere waters. Since global warming and its effects .on animal physiology is now a major concern, work such as this is becoming increasingly important. In addition, the economic viability of farming of Atlantic salmon is strongly influenced by the cost of production of smalls. Understanding the molecular mechanisms that contribute to, or cause reproductive failure is an essential component of reducing industry production costs, and at a broader level, ensuring that there are sufficient smolts produced each year to maintain industry growth and thus, provide food security and create jobs.
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