AquAdvantage salmon

AquAdvantage salmon is a genetically modified (GM) Atlantic salmon developed by AquaBounty Technologies. A growth hormone-regulating gene from a Pacific Chinook salmon, along with a promoter from an ocean pout, were added to the Atlantic salmon's 40,000 genes. This modification enables it to grow year-round instead of only during spring and summer.

Etymology[edit | edit source]

The name "AquAdvantage" is a portmanteau of "Aqua", referring to water, and "Advantage", signifying the benefits of the genetic modification.

History[edit | edit source]

The development of AquAdvantage salmon began in 1989 when the growth hormone-regulating gene was first inserted into the fertilized eggs of Atlantic salmon. In 1995, AquaBounty Technologies was founded to bring the fish to market. The company filed for regulatory approval in 1996.

Genetic modification[edit | edit source]

The AquAdvantage salmon's genetic modification is to add a growth hormone-regulating gene from a Pacific Chinook salmon and a promoter from an ocean pout to the Atlantic salmon's 40,000 genes. This allows the salmon to grow to market size in 16 to 18 months instead of three years.

Regulation[edit | edit source]

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved the AquAdvantage salmon for commercial production in November 2015. This was the first genetically modified animal to be approved for food use.

Controversy[edit | edit source]

The approval of AquAdvantage salmon has been controversial. Critics have raised concerns about potential environmental impacts if the GM salmon were to escape from captivity and breed with wild salmon populations.