In the spotlight:

Kostas Tzokas - Biologist and Broodstock & Selection Program Manager at Andromeda, Greece

What is your contribution to the FISHBOOST project?

I am the responsible person on behalf of Andromeda for Fishboost. My main tasks involve the preparation, execution and the follow-up of the experiments for Sea bream and Sea bass for the Greek populations. Additionally, I also participate in the documentation regarding the project (e.g. administrative sheets, financial reports, etc.). In general, I am Andromeda’s main contact for all the issues regarding the project.

What fascinates you in this project?

Working with people that are on a higher level of expertise in genetics in aquaculture. Participating in unique and prototype experiments for Mediterranean species. 

What are your expectations for the project and your contribution to the project?

To enhance the Mediterranean aquaculture by detecting new molecular tools (SNPs) and techniques (MAS) for producer’s favourable traits  (e.g. disease resistance, production efficiency) that can be implemented to existed breeding programs after the project. 

Andromeda’s main contribution to the project is by providing:

1.    Offspring coming from our breeding program 
2.    Facilities from part of its operation:  Hatchery & Farm 
         - Sea Bream: from broodstock matings until offspring tagging and transport to HCMR 
         - Sea bass:  from broodstock matings until disease resistance natural challenge test at                Andromeda’s farm.
3.    Knowledge we have gained since we started to run a breeding program in 2002 and            onwards.