To meet its client’s needs regarding the efficiency and sustainability of selective breeding strategies, the Center for Aquaculture Technologies (CAT) appointed Marcos De Donato as a new breeding scientist to facilitate genetic improvement in aquatic species.

De Donato has over 20 years of experience in animal breeding, genomics, and molecular diagnostics carried out not only in commercial organizations but also in academic research groups as well as the Universidad de Oriente, Cornell University, and Tecnológico de Monterrey. 

Focused on R&D and contract service, CAT will take advantage of De Donato’s appointment to improve productivity, efficiency, and sustainability in the industry through biotechnological tools implementation. 

“Aquaculture is the fastest growing industry in the world, and genetics is the key to its sustainable future,” said De Donato. “I believe CAT is a game changer for aquaculture – the in-house team can develop custom tools for any wild or cultured species, and they deliver innovative solutions accessible to companies at any level, big or small. This approach is what propels the industry into the future, and I am excited to begin my journey here.”

“I am thrilled to have Marcos joining the CAT breeding team. He brings years of experience in quantitative genetics, genomics, and the application of this expertise and advanced technologies to a diverse range of breeding programs and species. This addition ensures that the breeding team has the capability to meet the growing demand for genetic improvement expertise in the aquaculture industry while further enhancing CAT’s ability to continually create real impact across the aquaculture sector through the use of genetics,” said Klara Verbyla, CAT’s vice president of genetics.