Luke and Finnforel co-operate to develop selective breeding of rainbow trout

Finnforel Oy has initiated co-operation with Natural Resources Institute Finland (Luke) to develop a rainbow trout strain that is adapted to recirculating aquaculture system (RAS). The strain is owned and commercialized by Finnforel Oy.

In a breeding programme, fish are recorded and selected for traits that improve profitability and animal welfare, and reduce environmental footprint. In this way, consumers will have more ecologically and ethically sustainable sea food products.

Luke has decades-long experience on selective breeding and strain development of rainbow trout which are provided in this co-operation to Finnforel Oy. Land-based recirculating aquaculture system allows more controllable rearing environment for fish and reduces nutrient loading to the environment.

Natural Resources Institute Finland (Luke) has managed a breeding programme for rainbow trout starting from the late 80's. “The breeding programme is the 2nd oldest in the world, and is currently in its 10th generation”, Antti Kause, Principal Scientist in Luke, says.