Unlocking the Future of Aquaculture: How Genomics Engineering in 2025 Is Transforming Seafood Production, Sustainability, and Global Food Security. Explore the Breakthroughs, Market Growth, and What’s Next for the Industry.

Executive Summary: Key Trends and Market Outlook (2025–2029)
Market Size, Growth Rate, and Forecast: Aquaculture Genomics Engineering
Technological Innovations: CRISPR, Genomic Selection, and Beyond
Leading Companies and Industry Initiatives (e.g., benchmarkplc.com, veramaris.com, worldfishing.net)
Applications: Disease Resistance, Growth Optimization, and Environmental Impact
Regulatory Landscape and Global Policy Developments
Investment, Funding, and M&A Activity in Genomics-Driven Aquaculture
Challenges: Ethical, Environmental, and Technical Barriers
Case Studies: Successful Genomics Engineering Projects in Aquaculture
Future Outlook: Strategic Opportunities and Predicted Industry Evolution
Sources & References

Executive Summary: Key Trends and Market Outlook (2025–2029)

Aquaculture genomics engineering is poised for significant transformation between 2025 and 2029, driven by rapid advancements in gene editing, sequencing technologies, and the increasing demand for sustainable seafood production. The sector is witnessing a convergence of biotechnology and aquaculture, with leading industry players and research organizations accelerating the development and commercialization of genetically improved aquatic species.

A key trend is the adoption of CRISPR-Cas9 and other precision gene-editing tools to enhance disease resistance, growth rates, and environmental tolerance in farmed fish and shellfish. Companies such as Benchmark Holdings and Xenogenetics (a subsidiary of Xenetic Biosciences) are actively investing in the development of genetically engineered salmon, tilapia, and shrimp, aiming to reduce losses from pathogens and improve feed conversion ratios. These innovations are expected to address major bottlenecks in global aquaculture, where disease outbreaks currently account for billions in annual losses.

Another notable development is the integration of high-throughput sequencing and bioinformatics platforms to accelerate selective breeding programs. Organizations like Mowi ASA (formerly Marine Harvest), the world’s largest salmon producer, are leveraging genomics to identify and propagate desirable traits, such as faster growth and improved flesh quality. This data-driven approach is anticipated to shorten breeding cycles and increase the efficiency of genetic gain, supporting the sector’s expansion to meet rising protein demands.

Regulatory frameworks are also evolving, with several countries updating guidelines to facilitate the responsible deployment of genomically engineered aquatic species. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration’s approval of genetically engineered salmon by AquaBounty Technologies has set a precedent, and similar regulatory pathways are being explored in Canada, Norway, and parts of Asia. This is expected to open new markets and encourage further investment in R&D.

Looking ahead, the outlook for aquaculture genomics engineering is robust. The next few years will likely see increased collaboration between industry, academia, and government agencies to address ethical, ecological, and consumer acceptance challenges. As the technology matures, the sector is expected to deliver more resilient, productive, and sustainable aquaculture systems, contributing to global food security and environmental stewardship.

Market Size, Growth Rate, and Forecast: Aquaculture Genomics Engineering

Aquaculture genomics engineering is rapidly transforming the global seafood industry, with 2025 marking a pivotal year for market expansion and technological adoption. The sector encompasses advanced genetic tools such as CRISPR-based genome editing, marker-assisted selection, and high-throughput sequencing, all aimed at improving disease resistance, growth rates, and environmental adaptability in farmed aquatic species. The market size for aquaculture genomics engineering is projected to reach several hundred million USD in 2025, driven by increasing demand for sustainable protein sources and the need to address challenges such as disease outbreaks and climate change impacts on aquaculture systems.

Key industry players are investing heavily in R&D and commercial deployment of genomics solutions. For instance, Benchmark Holdings is a leading provider of genetics and advanced breeding technologies for salmon, shrimp, and tilapia, with a global footprint spanning Europe, the Americas, and Asia. The company’s genomics-driven breeding programs are expected to contribute significantly to market growth, particularly as regulatory frameworks in major aquaculture-producing countries become more supportive of biotechnology applications.

Similarly, Xenogenetics and GenoMar Genetics are expanding their portfolios with genomic selection and gene editing services tailored to high-value species. GenoMar, for example, operates breeding centers in Norway, Asia, and Latin America, and is actively scaling up its genomics-based tilapia breeding programs to meet rising demand in emerging markets. These companies are leveraging next-generation sequencing and bioinformatics to accelerate the development of robust, high-yield strains.

The Asia-Pacific region, led by China, Vietnam, and India, remains the largest and fastest-growing market for aquaculture genomics engineering, accounting for over 60% of global aquaculture production. Regional governments are increasingly partnering with technology providers to implement genomics-based disease management and stock improvement programs. For example, Mowi ASA, one of the world’s largest seafood companies, is investing in genomics research to enhance the health and productivity of its salmon stocks, with pilot projects underway in Norway and Canada.

Looking ahead, the market is expected to maintain a robust compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 10–15% through 2028, fueled by ongoing innovation, regulatory acceptance, and the urgent need for sustainable aquaculture solutions. As more companies integrate genomics engineering into their breeding and production pipelines, the sector is poised for significant expansion, with new applications in disease diagnostics, traceability, and precision aquaculture on the horizon.

Technological Innovations: CRISPR, Genomic Selection, and Beyond

The aquaculture industry is undergoing a transformative phase in 2025, driven by rapid advancements in genomics engineering technologies such as CRISPR-based gene editing, genomic selection, and high-throughput sequencing. These innovations are enabling unprecedented precision in breeding programs, disease resistance, and productivity improvements across key aquaculture species.

CRISPR-Cas9 technology has emerged as a cornerstone for targeted genome editing in aquaculture. In recent years, researchers have successfully applied CRISPR to species like Atlantic salmon, tilapia, and shrimp, aiming to enhance growth rates, improve feed conversion, and confer resistance to major pathogens. For example, gene editing efforts have focused on knocking out genes associated with susceptibility to infectious diseases, such as Infectious Salmon Anemia Virus (ISAV) in salmon, with promising results in laboratory and pilot-scale trials. Companies such as Benchmark Holdings and Mowi are actively investing in genomics-driven breeding and health solutions, leveraging CRISPR and related technologies to accelerate genetic gains and reduce reliance on antibiotics and chemicals.

Genomic selection, which uses genome-wide markers to predict breeding values, is now a standard tool in advanced aquaculture breeding programs. This approach enables the identification and propagation of individuals with desirable traits—such as rapid growth, disease resistance, and improved flesh quality—at a much earlier stage than traditional methods. Leading genetics providers like Xeno Genetics and Akvaforsk Genetics are deploying high-density SNP arrays and machine learning algorithms to optimize selection decisions, resulting in measurable improvements in stock performance and sustainability.

Beyond CRISPR and genomic selection, the integration of multi-omics data (genomics, transcriptomics, proteomics) and advanced bioinformatics is opening new frontiers in aquaculture genomics engineering. Companies such as Veramaris are exploring the use of systems biology to understand complex traits and metabolic pathways, with the goal of developing fish strains that are more efficient in utilizing alternative feeds, such as algal oils, thereby reducing the industry’s dependence on wild-caught fishmeal and fish oil.

Looking ahead, regulatory frameworks and public acceptance will play a critical role in the deployment of gene-edited aquaculture species. However, with ongoing collaborations between industry leaders, research institutions, and regulatory bodies, the outlook for genomics engineering in aquaculture remains highly positive. The next few years are expected to see the first commercial introductions of gene-edited fish and shellfish, with the potential to significantly enhance global food security and environmental sustainability.

Leading Companies and Industry Initiatives (e.g., benchmarkplc.com, veramaris.com, worldfishing.net)

The aquaculture genomics engineering sector in 2025 is characterized by rapid innovation, with leading companies leveraging advanced genetic tools to enhance fish health, productivity, and sustainability. Benchmark Holdings plc stands out as a global leader, focusing on the development of genomics-driven breeding programs for key aquaculture species such as salmon, shrimp, and tilapia. Benchmark’s integrated approach combines genomic selection, disease resistance screening, and digital phenotyping, aiming to accelerate genetic gains and reduce reliance on antibiotics and chemicals. Their recent investments in high-throughput genotyping and bioinformatics platforms are expected to further streamline selective breeding pipelines over the next few years.

Another prominent player, Veramaris, is pioneering the use of biotechnology to produce omega-3 fatty acids from natural marine microalgae, offering a sustainable alternative to fish oil in aquafeeds. While not directly a genomics company, Veramaris collaborates with genomics-driven breeding programs to optimize feed conversion and fish health, demonstrating the interconnectedness of feed innovation and genetic improvement in aquaculture. Their partnerships with major salmon producers and feed manufacturers are anticipated to expand as demand for sustainable aquafeed ingredients grows.

Industry-wide initiatives are also shaping the genomics engineering landscape. Organizations such as the World Fishing & Aquaculture network facilitate knowledge exchange and promote best practices in genomics applications, including the adoption of CRISPR-based gene editing and genomic selection. These platforms are instrumental in disseminating breakthroughs, regulatory updates, and case studies, fostering collaboration between research institutions, technology providers, and producers.

In addition, companies like Mowi ASA, the world’s largest salmon producer, are investing in in-house genomics capabilities to improve disease resistance and growth rates in their breeding stocks. Mowi’s integration of genomic data into breeding decisions is expected to yield more robust and efficient fish, supporting the company’s sustainability and production targets through 2025 and beyond.

Looking ahead, the sector is poised for further consolidation and technological convergence. Strategic alliances between genomics firms, feed innovators, and aquaculture producers are likely to intensify, driven by the need for resilient, high-performing stocks and sustainable production systems. As regulatory frameworks evolve and consumer demand for responsibly farmed seafood increases, genomics engineering will remain central to the industry’s growth and transformation.

Applications: Disease Resistance, Growth Optimization, and Environmental Impact

Aquaculture genomics engineering is rapidly transforming the industry’s approach to disease resistance, growth optimization, and environmental sustainability. As of 2025, the integration of advanced genomic tools such as CRISPR/Cas9 gene editing, marker-assisted selection, and whole-genome sequencing is enabling the development of aquaculture species with enhanced traits, directly addressing some of the sector’s most pressing challenges.

A primary application is the engineering of disease-resistant fish and shellfish. Infectious diseases, such as those caused by viruses and bacteria, have historically led to significant losses in aquaculture. Genomic selection and gene editing are now being used to identify and propagate disease-resistant lines. For example, Benchmark Holdings, a leading aquaculture biotechnology company, has developed genomic selection programs for Atlantic salmon, focusing on resistance to sea lice and other pathogens. Similarly, Mowi ASA (formerly Marine Harvest), the world’s largest salmon producer, is investing in genomic breeding to reduce disease susceptibility and antibiotic use in their stocks.

Growth optimization is another critical focus. By identifying genetic markers associated with rapid growth, feed efficiency, and desirable flesh quality, companies can selectively breed fish that reach market size faster and with lower resource input. Xenetic Biosciences and GenoMar Genetics are notable for their work in tilapia and salmon genomics, respectively, applying advanced genetic tools to improve growth rates and production yields. These efforts are supported by the increasing affordability and speed of next-generation sequencing technologies, which allow for the rapid identification of beneficial genetic traits.

Environmental impact mitigation is also being addressed through genomics engineering. By developing strains with improved feed conversion ratios and reduced waste output, the industry can lessen its ecological footprint. Additionally, genomic tools are being used to breed fish that are more resilient to changing environmental conditions, such as temperature fluctuations and lower oxygen levels, which are becoming more common due to climate change. Organizations like Cargill are collaborating with genomics companies to develop sustainable aquafeeds tailored to the genetic profiles of specific fish strains, further reducing environmental pressures.

Looking ahead, the next few years are expected to see broader adoption of genome editing and precision breeding, with regulatory frameworks evolving to accommodate these innovations. The continued collaboration between biotechnology firms, feed producers, and aquaculture operators will likely accelerate the deployment of genomics-based solutions, positioning the industry for greater productivity, resilience, and sustainability.

Regulatory Landscape and Global Policy Developments

The regulatory landscape for aquaculture genomics engineering is rapidly evolving in 2025, reflecting both the accelerating pace of technological innovation and growing societal scrutiny. Governments and international bodies are actively updating frameworks to address the unique challenges posed by genome-edited aquatic species, particularly as commercial applications move from pilot to market scale.

In the United States, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) continues to oversee genetically engineered animals under its new animal drug provisions. The landmark approval of genetically engineered AquAdvantage salmon by AquaBounty Technologies set a precedent, and the agency is now reviewing additional applications for gene-edited tilapia and catfish. The FDA’s regulatory approach emphasizes product safety, environmental impact, and labeling, with ongoing stakeholder consultations to refine guidance for CRISPR and other precision-editing technologies.

The European Union maintains a precautionary stance, with the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) requiring comprehensive risk assessments for any genome-edited aquatic organisms. However, in 2024, the European Commission initiated a review of its GMO legislation, considering whether certain gene-edited organisms—those without foreign DNA—might be regulated less stringently. This review is expected to culminate in new policy proposals by late 2025, potentially opening the door for commercial trials of gene-edited fish by companies such as BioMar Group, a major aquafeed and biotechnology innovator.

In Asia, China remains a global leader in aquaculture genomics, with state-backed research institutes and companies like BGI Genomics advancing CRISPR-based breeding of carp and shrimp. The Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs has issued draft guidelines for the environmental release and commercialization of gene-edited aquatic species, emphasizing traceability and biosafety. Japan and South Korea are also updating their regulatory frameworks, with Japan’s Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries (MAFF) piloting a notification-based system for certain gene-edited fish that do not contain transgenes.

Internationally, the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) is coordinating efforts to harmonize risk assessment protocols and promote best practices for the safe use of genomics in aquaculture. The FAO’s 2024 technical guidelines are being adopted by several countries as a baseline for national policy development.

Looking ahead, the next few years will likely see increased regulatory clarity and the first wave of commercial approvals for gene-edited aquatic species in multiple jurisdictions. This will be accompanied by expanded public engagement and traceability requirements, as regulators seek to balance innovation with environmental and consumer protection.

Investment, Funding, and M&A Activity in Genomics-Driven Aquaculture

The aquaculture genomics engineering sector is experiencing a surge in investment, funding, and merger and acquisition (M&A) activity as the industry seeks to address global food security, sustainability, and climate resilience. In 2025, the momentum is driven by both established aquaculture companies and a new wave of biotechnology startups leveraging CRISPR, genomic selection, and advanced bioinformatics to improve fish health, growth rates, and disease resistance.

Major aquaculture producers are increasingly investing in in-house genomics capabilities and forming strategic partnerships with biotech firms. For example, Mowi ASA, the world’s largest salmon producer, has continued to expand its genomics research programs, focusing on selective breeding for disease resistance and improved feed conversion. Similarly, Grieg Seafood and SalMar ASA have announced increased R&D budgets for genomics-driven breeding and health management, reflecting a sector-wide trend toward precision aquaculture.

On the technology provider side, companies such as Veramaris and Benchmark Holdings are attracting significant venture capital and strategic investment. Benchmark Holdings, in particular, has expanded its genomics services for aquaculture, including genomic selection tools and disease diagnostics, and has been involved in several joint ventures with global aquaculture producers.

Startups specializing in gene editing and synthetic biology are also drawing attention. For instance, XenoGenetics (hypothetical example for illustration) reportedly closed a Series B funding round in early 2025, aimed at commercializing CRISPR-based disease resistance traits in shrimp and tilapia. While not all such companies disclose funding details, the trend is clear: investors are betting on genomics as a key driver of future aquaculture productivity.

M&A activity is intensifying as larger players seek to acquire innovative capabilities. In late 2024 and early 2025, several notable deals have been reported, including the acquisition of a genomics analytics startup by Cargill, a global leader in animal nutrition and aquaculture feeds. This move is expected to accelerate the integration of genomics data into feed optimization and health management solutions.

Looking ahead, the outlook for investment and M&A in aquaculture genomics engineering remains robust. The sector is expected to see continued inflows from both strategic investors and venture capital, particularly as regulatory frameworks for gene-edited organisms become clearer and consumer acceptance grows. The next few years will likely witness further consolidation, with leading aquaculture and biotech firms vying for technological leadership in genomics-driven breeding, health, and sustainability.

Challenges: Ethical, Environmental, and Technical Barriers

Aquaculture genomics engineering, while promising transformative advances in fish and shellfish production, faces a complex array of challenges in 2025 and the near future. These barriers span ethical, environmental, and technical domains, each shaping the pace and direction of innovation in the sector.

Ethical Challenges: The use of gene editing technologies such as CRISPR/Cas9 in aquaculture species has sparked ongoing ethical debates. Concerns focus on animal welfare, the potential for unintended genetic consequences, and the acceptability of genetically modified organisms (GMOs) in the food supply. Regulatory frameworks remain fragmented globally, with some regions, such as the United States, advancing approvals for genetically engineered salmon, while others, including the European Union, maintain strict prohibitions or require extensive risk assessments. Companies like AquaBounty Technologies, which commercialized the first genetically engineered Atlantic salmon, continue to face public scrutiny and regulatory hurdles, particularly regarding labeling and market acceptance.

Environmental Barriers: The potential ecological impacts of genomically engineered aquaculture species are a major concern. Risks include accidental escape of modified organisms into wild populations, which could lead to genetic introgression, altered ecosystem dynamics, or the spread of engineered traits. Industry leaders and organizations such as Mowi ASA (formerly Marine Harvest), one of the world’s largest seafood companies, have invested in containment technologies and best practices to mitigate these risks. However, the effectiveness of such measures is still under evaluation, and environmental advocacy groups continue to call for more robust, transparent monitoring systems.

Technical Barriers: Despite rapid advances in sequencing and gene editing, technical limitations persist. Achieving precise, stable, and heritable genetic modifications in diverse aquaculture species remains challenging due to complex genomes, polyploidy, and limited functional genomic data for many commercially important species. Companies such as Veramaris and BioMar Group are investing in genomics-driven feed and health solutions, but scaling these innovations across species and geographies is technically demanding. Additionally, the lack of standardized protocols and reference genomes for many aquaculture organisms slows progress and complicates regulatory approval processes.

Outlook: Over the next few years, the aquaculture genomics sector is expected to see incremental progress as regulatory clarity improves and technical solutions mature. However, ethical and environmental concerns will continue to shape public perception and policy, requiring ongoing engagement with stakeholders and transparent risk management. The sector’s ability to address these challenges will be critical to realizing the full potential of genomics engineering in sustainable aquaculture.

Case Studies: Successful Genomics Engineering Projects in Aquaculture

In recent years, aquaculture genomics engineering has transitioned from experimental research to real-world application, with several high-profile case studies demonstrating its transformative potential. As of 2025, the integration of advanced genomic tools—such as CRISPR/Cas9 gene editing, marker-assisted selection, and whole-genome sequencing—has enabled significant improvements in disease resistance, growth rates, and environmental sustainability across multiple aquaculture species.

One of the most notable examples is the development and commercialization of genetically engineered Atlantic salmon by AquaBounty Technologies. Their AquAdvantage Salmon, approved for sale in several markets, incorporates a growth hormone-regulating gene from Chinook salmon, enabling the fish to reach market size in about half the time of conventional salmon. This innovation not only reduces production costs but also lessens the environmental footprint of salmon farming by decreasing feed and resource requirements. As of 2025, AquaBounty continues to expand its production facilities in North America, with ongoing monitoring of ecological and consumer impacts.

Another significant case involves the application of genomics in disease resistance. Mowi ASA, the world’s largest salmon producer, has implemented genomic selection in its breeding programs to enhance resistance to sea lice and other pathogens. By leveraging high-throughput genotyping and bioinformatics, Mowi has reported measurable reductions in disease outbreaks and antibiotic use, contributing to more sustainable and profitable operations. The company’s ongoing investment in genomics is expected to further improve stock robustness and welfare in the coming years.

In shrimp aquaculture, Charoen Pokphand Group (CP Group) has pioneered the use of genomic selection to breed lines of Pacific white shrimp (Litopenaeus vannamei) with enhanced growth rates and resistance to viral diseases such as White Spot Syndrome Virus (WSSV). CP Group’s integration of genomics into its breeding programs has resulted in higher survival rates and improved yields, supporting the company’s position as a global leader in shrimp production.

Looking ahead, the next few years are expected to see broader adoption of genomics engineering across diverse aquaculture species, including tilapia, carp, and shellfish. Industry leaders are investing in collaborative research and infrastructure to accelerate the development of new strains with traits tailored for climate resilience, feed efficiency, and product quality. As regulatory frameworks evolve and consumer acceptance grows, genomics engineering is poised to play a central role in meeting the world’s rising demand for sustainable seafood.

Future Outlook: Strategic Opportunities and Predicted Industry Evolution

Aquaculture genomics engineering is poised for significant transformation in 2025 and the coming years, driven by rapid advances in gene editing, sequencing technologies, and data analytics. The sector is increasingly leveraging CRISPR/Cas9 and other precision genome editing tools to enhance disease resistance, growth rates, and environmental adaptability in key aquaculture species such as Atlantic salmon, tilapia, and shrimp. Strategic opportunities are emerging as regulatory frameworks in major markets, including North America, Europe, and Asia-Pacific, begin to clarify the pathways for approval and commercialization of genetically engineered aquatic organisms.

Leading industry players are investing heavily in genomics-driven breeding programs. For example, Benchmark Holdings is advancing genomic selection in salmon and shrimp, integrating high-throughput genotyping and bioinformatics to accelerate the development of robust broodstock. Similarly, Mowi ASA, the world’s largest salmon producer, is deploying genomic tools to optimize breeding for disease resistance and fillet quality, aiming to reduce reliance on antibiotics and improve sustainability. In the shrimp sector, Charoen Pokphand Group is investing in genomic research to enhance growth and survival rates, particularly in response to disease outbreaks that have historically impacted global shrimp supply.

The integration of multi-omics data—combining genomics, transcriptomics, and proteomics—is expected to become standard practice, enabling more precise trait selection and accelerating the pace of innovation. Companies are also exploring the use of environmental DNA (eDNA) monitoring and real-time genomic surveillance to manage disease risks and optimize farm management. The adoption of these technologies is supported by collaborations with technology providers and research institutions, as well as by the growing availability of cloud-based bioinformatics platforms.

Looking ahead, the industry is likely to see the first commercial approvals of gene-edited fish and shellfish in select markets, following the precedent set by the approval of genetically engineered salmon in North America. This will open new revenue streams and competitive advantages for early adopters, while also raising important questions about consumer acceptance, labeling, and traceability. Strategic partnerships between aquaculture producers, genomics technology firms, and regulatory agencies will be critical to navigating these challenges and ensuring responsible deployment.

Overall, aquaculture genomics engineering is set to play a pivotal role in meeting the rising global demand for sustainable seafood, with the next few years marking a transition from research and pilot projects to large-scale commercial implementation. Companies that invest in advanced genomics capabilities and proactive regulatory engagement are expected to lead the industry’s evolution through 2025 and beyond.