Genetic Regulatory Mechanisms of Muscle Growth and Flesh Quality in <i>Oxyeleotris marmorata</i>

Oxyeleotris marmorata, commonly known as the marbled sleeper or bamboo fish, is a high-value tropical freshwater species appreciated for its superior flesh quality and nutritional value. Despite increasing production, the long breeding cycle and slow growth rate hinder its industrial development. This review systematically summarizes the genetic and molecular mechanisms underlying muscle growth and flesh quality traits in O. marmorata, aiming to provide a theoretical basis for genetic improvement. Key topics include muscle development stages, fiber types and composition, regulatory pathways such as the GH/IGF axis and myogenic regulatory factors (MRFs), as well as roles of non-coding RNAs. The paper also explores genes related to intramuscular fat deposition, collagen synthesis, and flavor-related metabolism. Advances in omics technologies, QTL/GWAS findings, environmental and nutritional influences, and breeding strategies like MAS and CRISPR-based gene editing are also discussed. This review provides comprehensive insights into improving growth performance and meat quality through molecular breeding approaches.