Research on catfish genetics by the Agricultural Research Service at Stoneville, Mississippi was initiated in 1986 by establishment of the Catfish Genetics Research Unit.

The primary research emphasis continues to be genetic improvement of catfish leading to the development and release of improved germplasm to commercial producers.

The breeding program implements a multi-trait selection program with the goal of improving multiple traits simultaneously in a catfish strain. The unit’s research program is successfully integrating molecular genetics research with traditional quantitative genetics research into a coordinated breeding program.

The Catfish Genetics Research Unit is located in the Thad Cochran National Warmwater Aquaculture Center on the Mississippi State University Delta Branch Experiment Station in Stoneville, Mississippi.

To contact personnel at the CGRU: (662) 686-3598