UP scientists develop micro-satellite markers for maliputo fish

The Oblation statue in front of the University of the Philippines – Diliman. Scientists from UP College of Science have developed micro-satellite markers to study the fish talakitok. INQUIRER FILE PHOTO

MANILA, Philippines — A group of scientists from the University of the Philippines – Diliman College of Science (UPD-CS) developed microsatellite markers for Caranx ignobilis, which is also known as maliputo or talakitok.

In science, microsatellite markers are used to study the genetics of organisms.

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According to project member Shenna Torres, the use of microsatellite markers will help protect maliputo, an edible fish.

“As it became a target fish, studying its biology is important to prevent overexploitation and to ensure sustainable aquaculture practices,” Torres said in a release of the UPD-CS.

This can also open the way for maliputo selective breeding to ensure optimal quality fish, she added.

“If we want to expand aquaculture practices for this species, genetic diversity studies can pinpoint seed stock populations or breeders with high genetic variation, or what we can call fit breeders,” Torres said.

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She added, “By selecting these diverse and fit breeders, we can enhance the resilience and growth rates of the farmed fish populations.”

Torres and her team published their findings in their study named “Development and Characterization of 12 Microsatellite Markers for an Economically Important Fish, Caranx ignobilis, in the Philippines.”