GENETIC MARKERS FOR INCREASED MUSCLE QUALITY AND FILLET YIELD IN ATLANTIC SALMON

摘要

The developmental program underlying muscle production during the lifecycle of fishes is beginning to be understood. Myogenic precursor cells formed in the embryonic somite and external cell layer contribute to muscle fibres in embryonic, larval, juvenile and adult stages. The large size difference between embryo and adult form requires the production of new muscle fibres until about 40% of the maximum attainable length. The final number of muscle fibres produced has both genetic and environmental components. Complex signaling pathways regulate the balance between the synthesis and degradation of proteins and determine the relationship between nutritional input and the production and hypertrophy of muscle fibres. Many of the molecules essential forthese events are known. At harvest around 65% of the gutted weight is recoverable as muscle fillet. Poor visible appearance of the fillet, often associated with gaping, and soft flesh are a source of downgrading losses during secondary processing which may further reduce yield.