OVERVIEW

The Decapod Aquaculture Forum is a transdisciplinary, cross-sector network that brings together researchers, industry, policymakers, and wider stakeholders working in decapod aquaculture across the United Kingdom and beyond.

The Forum supports sustainable, resilient, and responsible sector development recognising the interconnections between animal, human, and environmental health.

The Forum provides a platform for collaboration and knowledge exchange, supporting skills development, and strengthening the evidence base to inform innovation and decision-making across the UK decapod aquaculture community.

Why it exists

  • To strengthen the evidence base underpinning sustainable decapod aquaculture
  • To connect expertise across disciplines, sectors, and institutions to address shared challenges and identify common opportunities
  • To provide an environment which supports early and mid-career development in the UK decapod community

 

How this will be delivered

  • Transdisciplinary technical dialogues through annual in-person meetings (e.g. Aquaculture UK) and targeted thematic seminars
  • Dissemination of research, policy updates, and network activities through regular newsletters and social media.
  • Promotion of UK and international knowledge exchange around timely thematic priorities, shared challenges and opportunities
  • Active engagement with policymakers, regulators, industry, and other stakeholders to inform evidence-based decision-making

Network Themes

Biology Animal and Microbiology

Understanding crab, lobster and shrimp biology, health, welfare, and microbial interactions across life stages and production styles. This theme brings together expertise in physiology, behaviour, disease, and microbiology to support evidence-based, sustainable aquaculture practices.

Technology

Advancing and sharing technological solutions for decapod aquaculture, including production systems, monitoring tools, husbandry innovations, and data-driven modelling approaches. This theme focuses on improving efficiency, welfare, and environmental management.

Policy and Governance

Exploring the policy, regulatory, and governance frameworks shaping decapod aquaculture in the UK and internationally. This theme supports dialogue between researchers, industry, regulators, and policymakers to strengthen evidence-informed policy and responsible sector development.

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Last updated: 30/10/2025