Gene specialist hives off Canadian business

US-based aquaculture genetics specialist the Center for Aquaculture Technologies (CAT) is spinning out its Canadian subsidiary into a separate business.

CAT said the move was “part of a strategic alignment to optimise technical specialisation”.

Center for Aquaculture Technologies Canada (CATC) will operate as an independent company, although both will remain part of the portfolio of CAT’s parent, Cuna del Mar. The US and Canadian arms will continue to collaborate while operating under separate governance and management structures.

CAT, headquartered in San Diego, California, will maintain its focus on advancements in the aquaculture genetics sector. CAT houses state-of-the-art genotyping laboratories and a team of genomics and bioinformatics experts, capable of developing custom genetic tools for any aquatic species.

As well as its breeding expertise, the company also advises on genetic improvement programs, ranging from mass selection and genetic diversity management to advanced techniques like genomic selection.

Meanwhile, CATC, a contract research organisation with GMP (good manufacturing practice) release capabilities will continue to operate its facilities in Souris and Victoria, Prince Edward Island, Canada. CATC will retain focus on health and nutrition research for aquatic animals, supported by diagnostic services and a commercial-scale feed extruder.

Dr John Buchanan, CAT

John Buchanan, CEO of CAT, commented: “The realignment empowers CAT to pursue innovation in genetic improvement with singleness of purpose and strategic focus. We are excited about the opportunities in bringing our genome editing technologies to commercial impact while honouring environmental stewardship. We have a world class team in all genetics disciplines, are committed to client success, and are excited about the future. This will also allow CATC to pursue strategic initiatives in health and nutrition with agility and allow both teams to focus on innovation.”

The senior management and frontline teams for both organisations will remain in place, CAT said.

Newly appointed CEO of CATC, Myrna Gillis, added: “The realignment presents us with a unique opportunity to deepen our expertise in health, nutrition, diagnostics, and specialty feed production while forging new pathways for research and development. We are excited about the prospects this brings and are committed to driving meaningful contributions to the growth of the aquaculture sector. We also express thanks to our founder John Buchanan for his vision and leadership, and for the initiative in charting the exciting new direction for both organisations. Look for additional updates from us soon.”

Gillis has been overseeing the focus on health and nutrition since November of 2023. Additional information on CATC will be released soon, the company said.

CATC Canada facility