Genetic parameters for quality traits by non-invasive methods and their G x E interactions in ocean cages and estuaries on gilthead seabream (Sparus aurata)

Abstract Fish quality traits are important criteria for consumers in the commercial market as well as growth. In this study, flesh composition and morphology traits, in comparison with growth traits, were selected to study their additive genetic variation at harvest size, and their genetic and phenotypic correlations between different environments (cage and estuary). Flesh composition was measured by NIR and FFM technologies, while morphology was carried out by using image analysis with the IMAFISH_ML software. Heritability estimates ranged from low to medium (0.08–0.40) for growth, flesh composition and morphological traits. The genetic correlations were positive and high between growth traits (weight and SGR), negative and high between moisture versus lipids, negative and low for proteins vs. moisture and lipids, and high for morphological traits. At harvest size, GxE interactions were calculated from the same families cultured in cages and estuaries. The estimations were mainly high for all traits, suggesting a priori scarce GxE interaction. In conclusion, new technological traits showed additive variation components and genetic correlations between them and with growth traits.