Abstract

Selective breeding in freshwater fish is a powerful tool for improving aquaculture productivity, enhancing disease resistance, and optimizing growth rates. This process involves the deliberate selection of parent fish with desirable traits to pass on to the next generation, resulting in offspring that exhibit improved performance in various traits such as size, feed conversion, and stress resistance. The techniques used in selective breeding include family selection, crossbreeding, and genomic selection, which leverage genetic tools to accelerate the improvement process. This paper explores the principles, methods, and outcomes of selective breeding in freshwater fish, with a focus on the genetic, environmental, and economic factors that influence breeding success. It examines the role of selective breeding in enhancing the sustainability and efficiency of freshwater fish farming, addressing key challenges such as disease susceptibility, environmental tolerance, and market demand for specific fish characteristics. While selective breeding has led to significant improvements in freshwater fish species, it also raises concerns about genetic diversity, inbreeding, and the potential for unintended ecological impacts. The paper highlights the need for balanced approaches that incorporate genetic management strategies and responsible breeding practices to ensure long-term sustainability.