Improvement of production capacities of the carp (Cyprinus carpio L) using feeding and selective breeding programs

The subject of the proposed research is the improvement of carp production capacities which will be achieved by modern feeding and selective breeding programs. Feeding programs include creation of optimal feeding mixtures that will enable reduction of the fat content from actual 5-10 % to the desired 1-3 %. In addition lipid quality will be improved by enrichment of feed components with polyunsaturated (PUFA) fatty acids. Additional tool in the reinforcement of carp production capacities is the program of selection of families. Using the program families with best growth rate, resistant to diseases, low fat content, and suitable fatty acid content will be chosen. The planned experiments will be in accordance with animal welfare principles. Reduction of feed consumed together with improved growth rate will positively influence the aquatic environment by reducing the pollution load. This will prevent the development of Cyanobacteria that are the cause of carps “muddy” smell. Carp meat quality improvement will make the carp an attractive and competitive species. Therefore an increase of carp consumption in Serbia and European countries is expected. Increase in fish consumption will allow increased carp production, as well as the increase in fish feed production and all accompanying consumables needed in the production process. It will also affect new investments and increase of job opportunities. All this will have a positive effect on Serbian economy and agriculture development