Watershed, Evogene, and BGU to Expand Gene Editing Applications to White Leg Shrimp and Red Swamp Crayfish

Following a successful first year, Watershed AC, Evogene Ltd., and Ben-Gurion University (BGU) received approval from the Israel Innovation Authority (IIA) to continue developing gene-edited crustaceans using CRISPR technology. This collaboration aims to improve growth rate, disease resistance, and environmental adaption in crustacean species.

During the first year, Evogene optimized the GeneRator AI tech engine to provide prediction for optimal guide RNAs (gRNAs). This allowed Watershed and BGU to successfully produce the world's first gene-edited giant freshwater prawn with selected target traits of eye color and post-larvae at advanced life stages.

The growing global shrimp and crayfish market size necessitates products developed through gene editing, contributing to a more sustainable aquaculture. In the second year of collaboration, their main target is to industrially scale up CRISPR technology and expand the application to additional crustacean species, including white-leg shrimp and red swamp crayfish, for improved key traits.

For more information, read the press release from Evogene.