Cryopreservation of Fish Gametes

Understanding the reproductive physiology and endocrinology of fishes is essential for captive maturation and seed production in the field of aquaculture. Studying the spermatology of fishes is a comparatively new focus in aquaculture, which has emerged as an important area of fish research over the past two decades. In this regard, the cryopreservation of fish gametes is a crucial aspect. Moreover, energetics studies of gametes have become essential, considering the loss of vigour in the spermatozoa after cryopreservation.

The latest development in this context is the cryopreservation of spermatogonial stem cell, which is also covered in the book, along with detailed information on embryo cryopreservation in fishes and crustaceans. The role of cryopreservation in conservation programmes is another important aspect, one that will especially interest biologists.

This book addresses central issues in fish gamete cryopreservation and breeding, while also reviewingthe history of cryopreservation. Its most unique feature is the breadth of its coverage, from basic information on reproduction in fishes, to such advanced topics as embryo cryopreservation. Chiefly intended as a handy troubleshooting guide, the book represents a valuable resource for research students in related fields.

Dr John Stephen Sampath Kumar is a University Officer and Director of Sustainable Aquaculture at Tamil Nadu Dr. J. Jayalalithaa Fisheries University, Thanjavur, India. He has been involved in aquaculture research since 1988 and has over 300 publications, including 75 research papers in national and international journals, to his credit. He has been honoured with various awards, citations and commendations for his academic, research and administrative performance. His research interests include fish and crustacean physiology, breeding, nutrition, bioenergetics, cryopreservation of fish gametes and artificial fertilization. Dr Kumar also serves as a consultant to a number of firms involved in aquaculture around the globe. He has been involved in the development of fish and shrimp health care products in various countries, has more than 30 years of field experience in freshwater and brackish water aquaculture, and has coordinated more than 10 funded projects.