Task 1: Establishing Mussel Families and Collecting Phenotypic Data: Mussels will be bred using a full-sibling and half-sibling design to evaluate genetic variation in traits including meat colour, growth rate, survival and byssus strength. Phenotypic data will be collected, as well as DNA sample (see task 2), from both parents and offspring at various time points for subsequent genetic analysis.
Task 2: Genetic Analysis of Traits – Heritability and SNP Associations: Genome-wide association studies (GWAS) will be performed on DNA samples to identify genetic variants associated with key traits. A 60K SNP array will be utilized for mapping these variants. Heritability estimates and genetic correlations for the analysed traits will also be calculated to inform and enhance selective breeding strategies.
Task 3: Environmental Data Monitoring on Experimental Raft: A system will be developed to continuously monitor environmental variables that influence mussel growth. The collected data will be used to develop improved farm management practices.
Task 4: Optimizing Mussel Attachment and Seed Trap Efficiency: Various rope types and seed trap placements will be tested to enhance mussel attachment and the capture of exogenous (natural, wild) seeds. Continuous monitoring will be conducted using a remotely operated vehicle (ROV) and AI technologies.
Task 5: Assessing Mussel Family Viability in Raft Culture: Mussels produced in Task 1 will be evaluated for growth, survival and phenotypic stability of other traits of interest under natural raft-based culture conditions. Performance will be analysed in relation to environmental factors and heritability estimates will be calculated to inform breeding programs.
Task 6: Modelling Raft Dynamics: A high-resolution model will be developed to simulate raft dynamics, incorporating different sea states. The insights will be used to optimize mussel farm layouts and seed collection strategies.