Our research focuses on the biology, physiology, reproduction, and development of decapod crustaceans, with the aim of enhancing aquaculture practices, improving fisheries management, supporting conservation efforts through restocking programs or mitigating the impacts of global change, and developing biotechnological tools. To achieve this, we conduct studies ranging from the genetic to the ecosystem level, employing a wide range of methodologies, including omics, in situ hybridization, histochemistry, biochemistry, histology, and physiology.
Over the past five years, our work has concentrated primarily on two main research areas:
- The impact of environmental change on crustacean populations, particularly in the context of climate change.
We adopt a multidisciplinary approach—using respirometry, haemolymph metabolite and immune-response analysis, muscle antioxidant defense system studies, and hepatopancreas histological and biochemical assessments—to evaluate how these changes affect organismal physiology and to assess adaptive capacity. - Crustacean welfare.
The questions of (un)consciousness and death in decapod crustaceans remain open. We have developed invasive techniques such as electrocardiograms (ECGs), visual evoked responses (VERs), and electroencephalograms (EEGs) for use in shrimp, lobsters, and crabs, and have validated these methods with anaesthetics. One of our goals is to improve neural recordings by developing non-invasive, wireless techniques. However, consciousness and death cannot be determined solely through central nervous system activity—they must also be supported by behavioral and physiological indicators, which form the second focus of this research line.
Our broader objective is to promote knowledge on crustacean welfare and to train higher education professionals and personnel from Competent National Authorities (e.g., Ministries of Fisheries, welfare agencies). To this end, we are leading the CEREBAL project (CSIC/AECID) in Latin America and the Caribbean. Information on aquatic species welfare can be found on the project's website: https://bienestaranimal.unam.mx/.