In the warm, silty waters of the American South, catfish farming stands as a cornerstone of the region's aquaculture industry. In states like Alabama, Arkansas, and Mississippi, this practice is an essential aspect of local economies, contributing nearly $2 billion annually and providing livelihoods for thousands. Yet, beneath the surface of this success, catfish farmers face a continual challenge: cultivating fish that grow more efficiently and yield better meat.

A new breed of channel catfish is turning heads — or tails — in the industry. Developed by the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) Agricultural Research Service (ARS) at the Warmwater Aquaculture Research Unit (WARU), Delta Select catfish are growing about 25% faster and yielding more meat than their predecessors.

The development of the Delta Select line was the result of years of focused research. Scientists at WARU utilized advanced genetic and genomic selection methods to enhance traits critical to the industry, like growth rate and carcass yield. These traits, while small improvements on paper, can significantly affect the economic viability of catfish farming by allowing for more efficient production.

In March 2020, the first Delta Select broodstock — 180,000 pounds of fish — were distributed to a select group of commercial producers. This release marked a new chapter for the industry, as these genetically improved fish began to make their way into the broader supply chain. The aim was to provide hatcheries with the tools to reproduce the Delta Select line, spreading these benefits throughout the catfish farming community.

Moving a new genetic line from research facilities into commercial ponds is a complex process. WARU worked closely with industry representatives to ensure a smooth transition, prioritizing the integrity of Delta Selects. Producers receiving the fish entered into agreements to handle the broodstock with care, maintaining the quality and consistency of the genetic improvements.

Early results are promising, with some producers fully adopting Delta Selects and others gradually integrating them into their operations. The industry received a second release of Delta Selects in 2024 in response to producer demand. By 2025, a significant portion of U.S. catfish fry production could come from this new line, marking a notable shift in the industry.

The Delta Select line represents an impactful development in U.S. aquaculture. Its benefits—greater efficiency and improved long-term viability—are becoming clear, offering farmers a way to stabilize costs and boost productivity. The Delta Select is more than just a new breed; it's a glimpse into the future of sustainable aquaculture.

This technology received a 2024 FLC Impact Award. Learn more here and discover more awardees in our Honors Gallery.