ICLARM (an IARC) in partnership with the Institute of Aquaculture Research, Norway (an ASI), Central
Luzon State University and Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources, Philippines (NARS) undertook
genetic improvement of Nile tilapia and demonstrated for the first time that performance of tropical
finfish could be improved through simple selective breeding methods. NARS from Egypt, Ghana, Kenya
and Senegal collaborated in this effort by supplying wild germplasm from their countries. The 6th
generation of improved tilapia developed, popularly known as GIFT tilapia, is showing 30-65% higher
growth as compared to local species in a number of Asian countries where it has been tested. The
methods developed through this collaborative work are being extended to carp species, which contribute
some 60% of global aquaculture production. This partnership has also led to capacity building in
developing country NARS institutions and linkages between developing country institutions and eleven
ASIs through networking.