A team of scientists at the ICAR-Central Marine Fisheries Research Institute has successfully decoded the complete genome of the Indian oil sardine (Sardinella longiceps). This achievement holds significance as the Indian oil sardine is a vital pelagic fish species, contributing around 15% to India’s total marine fish production. The study also revealed the existence of two distinct sardine stocks in Indian waters and the Gulf of Oman. Additionally, researchers identified genes responsible for the production of polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA) in the oil sardine, shedding light on its high nutritional value and adaptation to climate change.
Facts/Terms for UPSC Prelims
- Pelagic Fish Species: Pelagic fish live in the open sea rather than near the ocean floor. They include species like sardines that swim in the water column.
- Genome Assembly: Genome assembly refers to the process of determining the complete DNA sequence of an organism, providing valuable genetic information.
- Prey-Predator Relationship: In the context of the marine ecosystem, it refers to the dynamic where smaller organisms like sardines serve as prey for larger marine predators.
- Polyunsaturated Fatty Acids (PUFA): PUFA are essential fats that offer various health benefits, and understanding their biosynthesis in the sardine genome provides insights into the nutritional quality of the fish.
- Marine Fisheries Industry: The marine fisheries industry involves the capture and production of seafood from marine sources. Indian oil sardines play a substantial role in this industry, contributing significantly to India’s fish production.
