Advanced genetics support for the global aquaculture industry
Breeding programme management
Leading aquaculture breeding
With over 30 programmes across more 16 different species around the world, Xelect offers unrivalled support to producers.
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Let’s explore how our genetic expertise can transform your aquaculture business. Every great partnership starts with a conversation.
Specialist genetics support to the global aquaculture industry
© All Rights Reserved. Xelect Ltd 2025
About
From our headquarters in the historic coastal town of St Andrews, Scotland, Xelect manage advanced selective breeding programmes all around the world.
From working with key commodity species such as salmon, shrimp and tilapia to breaking new ground with emerging species such as barramundi and yellowtail kingfish, we’re able to support customers in almost any location.
We use a combination of strategic site visits at key times and analysis of small tissue samples that are easily transported to our laboratory, where this data is analysed by our experts and in-house software.
About
Xelect’s expertise in aquaculture genetics spans an impressive diversity across the aquaculture sector.
We have significant experience managing programmes for all the main aquaculture species, including salmon, trout, shrimp, tilapia and bass and bream.
Availability of genetic resource and breeding expertise is no obstacle, we can develop new genetic tools and breeding programmes for any aquaculture species.
Our highly skilled team can guide you in the latest genetic techniques for your species and are constantly breaking new ground to deliver outstanding returns for our customers.
Xelect’s bespoke software is leading in terms of its flexibility and ability to handle even the most complex animal breeding programmes, including group spawning dynamics in seabass and the fast paced requirements of white-leg shrimp.
Genetics
Each one of our programmes is designed specifically for you and your unique requirements.
Unlike traditional genetics providers who offer off-the-shelf tools, we offer flexibly designed, custom genomic solutions specifically for your unique population, environment and business goals.
1. Understanding Your Goals
We begin by listening. What are you trying to achieve? This is the key to designing your bespoke programme.
2. Custom Solution Design
Based on your specific needs, we design the optimal approach for your business, using the most appropriate technology and markers, powered by our cutting edge software, services and genetic solutions.
3. Ongoing Partnership
Right from the start you’re supported by a dedicated programme manager – it’s as if you have your own genetics department constantly providing expert ongoing advice.
As your business evolves, we adapt our strategy to ensure you continue achieving your objectives.
By focusing on the efficient customer tailored genetic tools most relevant to your business goals, we provide more actionable insights without unnecessary complexity or cost.
Clients
We’re proud of our superior results and outstanding customer service. Xelect’s track record speaks for itself, we run more breeding programmes for customers than any other company.
Our approach is collaborative and fully transparent. Allowing our customers to always feel in control of their own broodstock, breeding programme and data.
That’s why the leading aquaculture companies worldwide choose Xelect.
✓ Over 30 breeding programmes
Unparalleled experience across multiple species and environments, providing a wealth of data and insights that benefit every client partnership.
✓ Worldwide experts
Our team of internationally recognised geneticists and aquaculture specialists bring global perspectives and localised solutions to your breeding challenges.
✓ Thought leaders
Regularly published in leading scientific journals and featured at major industry conferences, our team is at the forefront of aquaculture genetics innovation.
✓ Outstanding results generation after generation
Our breeding programmes deliver consistent genetic improvement with measurable economic benefits that compound over time.
✓ World leading bespoke genetics software
Purpose-built technology that combines cutting-edge science with first class expertise, providing powerful tools designed specifically for aquaculture.
✓ Understanding customers’ business requirements
We take time to comprehend your unique goals, commercial requirements, environment and operational challenges and market position before designing your bespoke genetic programme.
✓ Superior customer service
Beyond technical excellence, we pride ourselves on responsive, attentive, and personalised support throughout every stage of your breeding programme.
✓ True partnerships
We don’t just provide services; we build lasting relationships based on mutual success, working alongside you as an extension of your team.
✓ Transparent and flexible working practices
Clear communication, integrity, and honest reporting ensure you always know exactly where your programme stands.
✓ In-house laboratory
Complete control over sample processing, analysis, and quality assurance, ensuring fast turnaround times and consistent, reliable results you can trust.
✓ Backed by Genus
Our parent company Genus plc is a world leader in animal genetics providing access to the latest developments in R&D and breeding technologies.
Clients
Genetic selection of improved strains is a key driver influencing the profitability of aquaculture companies, particularly with respect to the need to achieve faster growth, higher feed conversion efficiency, increased yield, improved product quality and greater resistance to major diseases that impact survival.
Genetic selection of improved strains is a key driver influencing the profitability of aquaculture companies, particularly with respect to the need to achieve faster growth, higher feed conversion efficiency, increased yield, improved product quality and greater resistance to major diseases that impact survival.
A seven-year strategic partnership between aquaculture genetics specialist Xelect and premium Mediterranean fish producer Cromaris has yielded unprecedented improvements in bass and bream production through advanced selective breeding.
Genetics
We have extensive experience working with Atlantic Salmon, Rainbow Trout, and other aquaculture species, with the flexibility to develop solutions for any species.
Ready-to-go parentage panels available for:
Custom-designed solutions for: