In groundbreaking work, a group of researchers from Bangamata Sheikh Fojilatunnesa Mujib Science and Technology University (BSFMSTU) have decoded the whole genome sequencing of Rohu fish (Labeo rohita) from the Jamuna River.
Dr Mahmudul Hasan, head of the research team, revealed the information at a seminar on the study in the conference room of the BSFMSTU vice-chancellor on Wednesday.
Mahmudul Hasan, also an assistant professor and head of the research cell of the University's Fisheries Department, said that the research commenced in 2022.
On collecting fish from the Jamuna River, the research was carried out on supercomputers at university laboratories in Japan and India.
The team analyzed all information about the DNA or genetic characteristics of the fish.
He said that the genome is the complete life plan of a creature.
“All biological activities of an animal, including morphology, birth, growth, reproduction and adaptation to the environment, are conducted from the instructions stored in its genome,” he added.
“Whole genome sequencing is the determination of how all the nucleotides (molecules) in an animal’s genome are arranged. The total number of genes in an animal’s genome, their characteristics, and their function are known from the complete genome sequence,” said Mahmudul Hasan.
The researchers believe that this success will play an important role in the conservation and production of Rohu fish.
At the same time, it will be helpful to know the characteristics of Rohu fish in detail. This success in uncovering the secret of life will be used to increase the production and quality of Rohu fish, they added further.
