Transcriptome analysis of vertebral deformity in cobia (Rachycentron canadum)

Cobia (Rachycentron canadum) is a high-value marine food fish and is an important species for cage and other intensive aquaculture systems. However, a high incidence of deformity was reported in tank-reared cobia juveniles, with vertebral deformity being one of the most common types, which can significantly affect the growth of cobia and even lead to death. In the present study, we analyzed the gene expression in the vertebrae of normal and deformed cobia juveniles using transcriptome sequencing technology, to investigate the molecular regulatory mechanism of vertebral deformity formation in cobia.