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Plant & Food Research's Nelson-based seafood technologies team has for the first time managed to breed blue cod in captivity.
Joseph Thomas from Ngai Tahu Seafood, which is supporting the research, says the programme could have real commercial and kaitiakitanga benefits for the seafood industry.
Under the Quota Management System about 2000 tonnes of blue cod is caught each year, mostly for domestic consumtion, but the species is under pressure in many areas.
In the first stage of the research, about 2000 hatchlings were raised from wild blue cod from the Marlborough Sounds.
That success means the scientists can now look at what is needed for intensive aquaculture grow out.
Mr Joseph says they may also be able to identify ways to replenish and strengthen wild fishing stocks, which will have a positive impact on customary, recreational and commercial availability.
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