On April 24, 2025, the School of Maritime Engineering and Marine Sciences (FIMCM) of the Escuela Superior Politécnica del Litoral (ESPOL) reaffirmed its commitment to applied research and the development of sustainable solutions for the national aquaculture industry during its outstanding participation in the third edition of Expo Larva. This important event, considered one of the most relevant meetings in the field of larviculture in Ecuador, took place at the Santa Elena Peninsula State University (UPSE) and was organized by the Association of Shrimp Larvae Producing Laboratories (ASOLAP).
On behalf of the ESPOL, M. Sc. Adrián Márquez, professor and researcher at FIMCM, presented a paper entitled “Macro and microalgae: tools for Larval Biosecurity”, in which he presented recent research on the use of these organisms as key resources to improve biosecurity in the early stages of shrimp farming. Professor Márquez's presentation captured the interest of the technical and scientific community present by demonstrating how the natural properties of algae can contribute significantly to disease prevention, the balance of the aquatic microbiome and the strengthening of the larval immune system.
During his presentation, he highlighted the role of macro and microalgae not only as nutritional sources, but also as bioactive agents that provide antioxidant, antimicrobial and antiviral compounds, making them strategic allies to promote the sustainability and efficiency of the shrimp sector. This line of research is part of FIMCM's efforts to promote more resilient aquaculture practices in the face of the health and environmental challenges faced by the industry.
Expo Larva 2025 brought together a broad spectrum of actors from the aquaculture sector, including producers, researchers, technicians and service providers, consolidating itself as a space for the exchange of knowledge, experiences and technologies. The event offered a rich program of technical presentations, round tables for specialized discussion and a trade fair with an exhibition of innovative products and services for larval farming and aquaculture in general.
The active participation of FIMCM in this type of meetings strengthens the links between academia and the productive sector, and reflects the leadership of ESPOL in the generation of scientific knowledge with direct application in the economic development of the country. It also positions the faculty as a benchmark in the training of highly qualified professionals and in the promotion of research that responds to the needs of the environment.
From FIMCM, we remain committed to the advancement of science and technology applied to the marine and aquaculture sector, with the firm purpose of contributing to the welfare of the coastal ecosystem, food security and competitiveness of the Ecuadorian aquaculture industry.
