Selective breeding of Nile tilapia, Oreochromis niloticus: A strategy for increased genetic diversity and sustainable development of aquaculture in Kenya

The aquaculture subsector is important in Kenya for food and nutritional security. The rapid growth of the subsector is evident especially in the widespread culture of Nile tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus); however, the gains made in the industry may be curtailed by inadequate quality seed. Currently, hatcheries are plagued by inbreeding, hybridization of related stocks, and poor-quality broodstock due to lack of proper selective breeding plans or strain improvement for broodstock development. Properly designed selective breeding programs in both public and private hatcheries will be the solution to provision of quality seeds for sustained aquaculture growth. Currently, the fingerlings produced exhibit a low growth rate under culture conditions. This review discusses the significance of genetic improvement of Oreochromis niloticus through selective breeding with reference to current and previous global experiences and reports. Genetic improvement of tilapia is important in provision of quality seeds to farmers for growth in body weight and sustainable aquaculture development. Body weight, survival, and resistance to diseases are heritable traits that can be improved through selective breeding for a long-term genetic gain and trait improvement. A strain improvement program that encompasses establishment of breeding nuclei and programs for monitoring and evaluation of hatcheries, based on the existing standard operating procedures for tilapia seed production, should be in place to ensure adherence to the procedures for stock improvement and sustainable growth of aquaculture in Kenya.