Our breeding programme managers Dr José Mota-Velasco and Angel Carrasquillo recently visited with our partners at Valle Ca Zuliani, a leading European seabass juveniles provider committed to advancing high performance genetics for the Mediterranean aquaculture sector.
Advancing Genetics Through Collaboration and Innovation
Valle Ca Zuliani has been collaborating with Xelect since 2024, and together we’ve now reached an exciting milestone of producing: three cohorts of genetically improved broodstock. These lines are being developed to deliver faster growth rates and improved resistance to Viral Nervous Necrosis (VNN)—two traits with major economic importance for seabass farms across the region.
During this visit, our team supported artificial fertilisation activities for the 2026 year‑class, ensuring the next generation of broodstock is produced with robust genetic planning and selection behind it. We also had the opportunity to tour their facilities, review progress to date, and discuss how the programme can continue to evolve.
The conversations focused on maximising the genetic potential of their seabass lines, strengthening resilience against disease challenges, and building a broodstock pipeline that supports long term growth for the industry. The dedication from the Valle Ca Zuliani team to continuous improvement, innovation, and operational excellence is evident in every part of their work.
“It’s inspiring to see this partnership move from early implementation to meaningful impact in just a few years. Together, we’re shaping a future where seabass producers can access reliable, fast growing, disease resistant broodstock backed by worldclass genetic technology.” Angel Carrasquillo, Xelect
Partnerships like this reflect what customers can expect when they entrust their breeding programme to Xelect. Our partners experience long term collaboration, hands on genetic support, and a shared commitment to continuous improvement.
A sincere thank you to the entire Valle Ca Zuliani team for their hospitality, openness, and commitment to collaborative progress. In particular, we would like to express our gratitude to CEO Oliver Martini, his collaborators Matteo Freguglia and Stan Laureau, and Padova University represented by Dr. Daniela Bertotto for their valuable partnership. We’re proud to support their journey and look forward to many more successful milestones ahead.
