Earth Precision Agriculture
August 10-14, Calgary, Canada
Aquaculture Conference
Advancing sustainable aquaculture through integrated research in genomics, artificial intelligence, engineered systems, and socio-economic and policy innovation
About this Track
The Aquaculture Conference track highlights emerging technologies and interdisciplinary research that advance the sustainability, productivity, and resilience of marine and freshwater systems critical to global food security. The track provides a platform for researchers, industry experts, and policymakers to share innovative methods and applications across genomics, artificial intelligence, systems engineering, economics, and governance. Contributions that bridge disciplines and translate technological innovation into improved system performance and decision-making are particularly encouraged.
As an event dedicated to precision farming, EPA 2026 goes beyond traditional aquatic husbandry to focus on rigorous, peer-reviewed science integrating technology. Presentations and talks will examine critical issues such as real-time monitoring of water quality and fish behavior using AI and sensors, the development of disease-resistant strains through genomic selection and CRISPR, and advanced data analytics for optimizing production efficiency and supply chain logistics.
Attendees will also benefit from the broader Earth Precision Agriculture ecosystem, gaining access to complementary disciplines. This cross-pollination of ideas creates unparalleled opportunities for interdisciplinary collaboration that extends well beyond the event.
Topics of interest include, but are not limited to:
Genomics and Biotechnology for Sustainable Aquaculture
- Genomic Selection and Precision Breeding: Application of genomic tools to accelerate genetic improvement in aquaculture species, including marker-assisted selection and genomic estimated breeding values (GEBVs).
- Gene Editing and Functional Genomics: Use of CRISPR-Cas9 and other gene editing technologies to enhance desirable traits such as growth rate and disease resistance, along with functional genomics approaches to understand gene function.
- Epigenetics and Sex Determination: Research on epigenetic mechanisms (e.g., DNA methylation, histone modification) and their role in species adaptation, as well as molecular mechanisms of sex determination in commercially important species.
- Disease Resistance and Immunogenetics: Studies on the genetic basis of disease resistance and the development of disease-resistant strains through selective breeding and advanced biotechnological interventions.
- Microbiome and Host-Pathogen Interactions: Exploration of the influence of the gut and environmental microbiome on fish health, nutrition, and disease susceptibility.
- Environmental DNA (eDNA) Applications: Use of eDNA for biodiversity monitoring, early disease detection, and ecosystem assessment in and around aquaculture environments.
- Alternative Aquafeed and Novel Ingredients: Development of sustainable and nutritious feed ingredients, including insect meal, algae, single-cell proteins, and plant-based alternatives to reduce reliance on traditional fishmeal and fish oil.
Artificial Intelligence, IoT, and Automation in Aquaculture
- AI and Machine Learning for Predictive Analytics: Application of machine learning algorithms to predict growth, mortality, disease outbreaks, and environmental conditions for proactive and optimized farm management.
- IoT and Sensor Networks for Real-Time Monitoring: Deployment of advanced sensor networks to continuously monitor critical water quality parameters (e.g., temperature, dissolved oxygen, pH, ammonia) and environmental conditions.
- Computer Vision for Biomass Estimation and Health Monitoring: Use of underwater cameras and sophisticated image analysis algorithms to non-invasively estimate fish biomass, detect abnormal behavior, and assess health status.
- Robotics and Automation in Farm Operations: Development and implementation of autonomous systems for feeding, net cleaning, harvesting, and site inspection to reduce labor costs and improve operational efficiency.
- Blockchain for Traceability and Transparency: Implementation of blockchain technology to create immutable records for seafood traceability, verify sustainability claims, and build consumer trust throughout the supply chain.
Advanced Aquaculture Systems and Engineering
- Recirculating Aquaculture Systems (RAS) and Biofloc Technology: Research on the design, operation, and optimization of land-based RAS facilities, including the application of biofloc systems for superior water quality and waste management.
- Offshore and Open-Ocean Aquaculture Systems: Innovative engineering solutions for farming in exposed marine environments, including the design of submersible cages, autonomous platforms, and robust mooring systems.
- Integrated Multi-Trophic Aquaculture (IMTA): Studies on the co-cultivation of species from different trophic levels (e.g., finfish, shellfish, seaweed) to create synergistic, circular systems that minimize waste and environmental impact.
- Aquaponics and Vertical Aquaculture: Integration of aquaculture with hydroponic plant production and the development of space-efficient vertical farming systems suitable for urban environments.
- Waste Management and the Circular Economy: Development of technologies and strategies for converting aquaculture waste into valuable co-products, including biofuels, fertilizers, and animal feed ingredients.
Economics, Policy, and Social Dimensions of Aquaculture
- Aquaculture Economics and Market Analysis: Rigorous economic assessment of new aquaculture technologies, cost-benefit analysis of sustainable practices, and analysis of market trends for farmed seafood products.
- Investment and Finance in Aquaculture: Examination of financing mechanisms, venture capital trends, and investment opportunities in aquaculture technology and infrastructure.
- Governance, Policy, and Regulatory Frameworks: Analysis of national and international policies, licensing procedures, and environmental regulations, and their impact on fostering or constraining innovation in the aquaculture sector.
- Social License and Community Engagement: Development of effective strategies for building public trust, engaging local communities, and addressing social concerns related to aquaculture development.
- The Blue Economy and Sustainable Development: Exploration of the role of aquaculture within the broader blue economy and its contribution to achieving the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
Leadership Team
Dr. Gen Hua Yue
Director
Strategic Research Programme
Temasek Life Sciences Laboratory
National University of Singapore
Dr. Yonathan Zohar
Professor and Chair
Department of Marine Biotechnology
University of Maryland, Baltimore County (UMBC)
Dr. Kornsorn Srikulnath
Associate Professor in Genetics
Faculty of Science
Kasetsart University, Bangkok
Prof. José Manuel Yáñez López
Dean
Faculty of Veterinary and Animal Sciences
Universidad de Chile
Dr. Farhad Maleki
Director
Centre for Precision Agriculture
University of Calgary
Aquaculture Conference at a Glance
- Event: Aquaculture Conference track at EPA 2026
- Dates: August 10-14, 2026
- Venue: BMO Centre, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
- Key Topics: Genomics, AI & IoT, Advanced Systems, and Socio-Economics
- Focus: Advancing sustainable aquaculture through precision technology and interdisciplinary research
- Partner Airlines: Air Canada, WestJet, and Lufthansa Group (exclusive discounts available)
- Partner Hotels: Hyatt Regency Calgary and Sandman Signature Downtown, both within walking distance from the conference venue
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: When and where is the Aquaculture Conference 2026?
The Conference track will be held August 10-14, 2026, at the BMO Centre in Calgary, Alberta, Canada. We offer exclusive travel discounts through our partner airlines (Air Canada, WestJet, and Lufthansa Group) and discounted rates at our partner hotels (Hyatt Regency Calgary and Sandman Signature Downtown), both within walking distance of the venue.
Q2: What topics are covered at the aquaculture conference?
The conference track covers specialized topics including genomics and biotechnology, artificial intelligence and IoT, advanced aquaculture systems and engineering, and the economics, policy, and social dimensions of aquaculture.
The conference track covers specialized topics including genomics and biotechnology, artificial intelligence and IoT, advanced aquaculture systems and engineering, and the economics, policy, and social dimensions of aquaculture.
Q3: Who should attend the aquaculture conference?
The conference track is designed for researchers, marine biologists, geneticists, agricultural engineers, industry professionals, and policymakers focused on advancing sustainable aquaculture production through precision farming and innovation.
Q4: Will there be opportunities to publish research in conference proceedings or journals?
Yes, the conference track offers multiple publication pathways. All accepted abstracts will be published in the official EPA proceedings. Additionally, selected submissions that meet the scope and rigor of the special issues dedicated to the conference tracks of EPA 2026 will be invited to submit to a long list of reputable peer-reviewed journals.