General

As a research team at East China University of Science and Technology, our project stems from a profound commitment to addressing key technological challenges in modern agriculture, particularly focusing on resolving disease issues that persistently affect aquaculture industries worldwide. Through systematic investigations into fish diseases, development of fish vaccines, and related equipment research, we successfully developed the "Sun Wukong Fish Vaccine" and its accompanying inoculation system. This process has enabled our team to accumulate invaluable interdisciplinary expertise: We established deep collaborative partnerships with experts across multiple disciplines, strengthening academic-industrial connections through continuous dialogue, multi-stakeholder coordination, and partnership building. Simultaneously, we conducted in-depth exchanges with frontline aquaculture farmers who have witnessed the real-world impacts of fish diseases firsthand, ensuring strong practical integration throughout the project and tight alignment with its timeline.

In the process of project promotion, we deeply understand the challenges faced by the experimental group and hardware group in the R&D process, and help to make decisions and solve these problems through a variety of human practice research.

During the investigation of vaccine mechanisms and efficacy evaluation, the wet lab group identified multiple limitations in conventional vaccination methods. Conventional injection techniques proved inefficient and prone to inducing stress responses in fish, while immersion vaccination showed low utilization rates with significant individual immune response variations. Oral vaccines faced dual challenges of gastrointestinal enzymatic degradation and intestinal mucosal barriers. To address these issues, we conducted field research to gain deep insights into practical needs and pain points of fish vaccination across different aquaculture models. By integrating experimental data, this approach provided the team with evidence-based guidance for optimizing vaccine formulations and administration strategies, ultimately enabling the development of more targeted and effective vaccines.

During the design and development of vaccination equipment, the hardware group encountered technical bottlenecks. Traditional injection devices were costly and operationally complex, while immersion equipment faced efficiency and uniformity challenges. To address these issues, we conducted extensive market research and user demand analysis, engaging in in-depth discussions with multiple breeding enterprises and farmers to gather substantial firsthand data. Based on these findings, we provided innovative design concepts and technical solutions for the hardware group. These included implementing IoT technology for intelligent control of vaccine administration and utilizing Archimedes' screw mechanism to enhance both efficiency and uniformity. This approach enabled the hardware team to successfully develop efficient, cost-effective, and user-friendly vaccination equipment.

Furthermore, this project aims to achieve multidimensional social values.While ensuring user-friendly tools with significant cost-effectiveness and accessibility, we emphasize integrating diverse perspectives to enhance the universality and innovation of solutions. Team members, driven by environmental awareness, actively participate in social practices dedicated to advancing sustainable agricultural initiatives. Through these efforts, we strive to provide robust support for the sustainable development of aquaculture, reduce disease impacts on the industry, ensure food safety, promote ecological conservation, and create greater economic and social value for society.

How Did We Start?

2.1 Social Background Research —— September 2024

As a core technological approach in modern aquaculture disease prevention and control, fish vaccination plays a direct role in the sustainable development of global aquaculture. Current mainstream vaccination methods include injection, immersion, and oral administration. Our survey of aquaculture enterprises reveals that all these companies currently face significant technical bottlenecks in this field.

While injection method ensures precise vaccine administration, it requires individual handling of each fish, which is both time-consuming and labor-intensive. This approach not only incurs high labor costs but also easily triggers stress responses in fish, making it nearly impossible to implement in large-scale aquaculture farms processing tens of thousands of fry daily. The immersion method, though simple to operate, suffers from low vaccine utilization rates (typically under 5%) and significant variations in immune efficacy among individuals. Oral vaccination faces dual challenges——: overcoming digestive enzyme degradation and breaking through intestinal mucosal barriers, leading to unstable immune responses.

Intravenous vaccination remains the standard practice for fish immunization, offering precise dose control to ensure each individual receives accurate administration. This proves particularly crucial for vaccines requiring specific dosage thresholds to elicit effective immune responses. However, this method presents significant limitations: Each fish must be individually handled, a time-consuming and labor-intensive process. In large-scale aquaculture operations handling tens of thousands of fry daily, such traditional methods prove nearly impossible to implement. Take Norway's Lumic LV8 semi-automatic injection system as an example: equipped with eight injection channels, it requires four operators to vaccinate 20,000 fish per hour. Even for salmon hatcheries producing 20 million fry annually, the entire vaccination process would take 1,000 hours—— an impractical timeframe for industrial-scale operations[1]. Moreover, the injection procedure inherently induces stress responses in fish. These physiological reactions weaken their immune systems, making them more susceptible to secondary infections that ultimately reduce overall growth rates and survival rates.

Figure 1. Injection inoculation

In contrast, the immersion method is relatively straightforward. Fish are placed in a vaccine-containing solution, where the vaccine gets absorbed through their gills and skin. However, this approach suffers from low vaccine efficacy, typically below 5%. This occurs because most vaccine remains in the water, failing to be effectively absorbed by fish. Notably, studies have found that factors like fish gill structure and skin mucus further hinder vaccine absorption, exacerbating the inefficiency[2]. Moreover, there's significant variation in immune response across individuals. Factors such as fish size, health status, and swimming behavior all influence vaccine uptake, resulting in uneven immune protection effectiveness among different fish populations.

Figure 2. Bubble inoculation

Oral vaccines present an alternative approach, yet they face dual challenges: enzymatic degradation in the digestive tract and the intestinal mucosal barrier. The digestive enzymes in fish intestines break down vaccine components, reducing their efficacy. Meanwhile, the intestinal mucosal barrier—which should protect against foreign substances—may hinder full absorption. Furthermore, since oral vaccination relies on feeding behavior, inconsistent administration can leave some fish unvaccinated—a critical practical issue [2]. Consequently, oral vaccines often induce unstable immune responses, making it difficult to achieve sustained disease prevention.

In summary, while fish vaccination is vital for aquaculture, existing mainstream methods have inherent limitations. Addressing these challenges not only plays a key role in enhancing disease prevention efficiency but also presents a pivotal opportunity to transition the industry from the "antibiotic era" to the "vaccine era" [3]. Overcoming these technical barriers will be crucial for advancing fish vaccines and their widespread application, injecting new momentum into the sustainable and healthy development of global aquaculture.

Figure 3. Oral vaccination

2.2 Target User Group and Market Demand Analysis ——October 2024

2.2.1 Target User Groups

Diet Consumer Groups

The modern consumer's pursuit of healthy eating has fueled the booming market for premium aquatic products. As an ideal low-fat, high-protein food (averaging 18-22g protein per 50g) rich in EPA/DHA (with Omega-3 fatty acids reaching 1-2g per 50g), global annual consumption per capita has surpassed 20.5kg. Notably, high-nutrient fish like rainbow trout and tuna are seeing annual demand growth rates exceeding 12%, particularly among fitness enthusiasts, pregnant and postpartum individuals, and those at high risk of cardiovascular diseases.

Figure 4. Fish ingredients

Pharmaceutical/Health products

The global market size of fish oil health products has exceeded 4 billion US dollars, among which high-end products such as DHA seaweed oil and krill oil have increased by 18%. These functional products for infant brain development and prevention of cognitive impairment in the elderly are particularly strict on vaccine safety.

Figure 5. Fish oil health products

Fish Collagen Cosmetics

Fish collagen has become a game-changer in skincare with its exceptional moisturizing and anti-wrinkle properties. Featuring a unique Type I collagen structure (with a molecular weight of 280-300 kDa), it delivers 30% better hydration than land-based collagen. Leading global brands like Estée Lauder and Shiseido have launched their "Ocean Skincare" collections containing fish collagen, which now generate over $1.5 billion in annual sales.

Figure 6. Fish collagen cosmetics

Fish Skin Products

Fish skin leather, a sustainable fashion material, has gained popularity among eco-conscious consumers embracing the "fishery-first" philosophy. For instance, salmon skin leather delivers 80% of the tear resistance of genuine cowhide while reducing its carbon footprint by a factor of ten. Eco-forward brands like Stella McCartney have launched premium fish-skin handbags priced over $2,000, with annual production growth rates reaching a remarkable 25%.

Figure 7. Fish skin products

2.2.2 Market Demand

In 2024, the total output of global fisheries and aquaculture reached 223.2 million tons, with aquaculture production accounting for 59%, surpassing fishing for the first time. As the world's largest producer of aquatic products, China's total output in 2024 was 74.1 million tons, with aquaculture production reaching 60.8 million tons, representing a significant 82% share. It is projected that by 2029, the global fish vaccine market will reach $680 million, with a compound annual growth rate of 9.2%. The data indicates that the market demand for fish products continues to expand and rise year by year.

The global aquaculture industry is currently undergoing structural transformation. According to 2024 data, China, as the world's largest producer, contributes 58% of global aquaculture output, with vaccine-dependent species such as shrimp and tilapia accounting for over 40%. Norway's salmon farming industry has reduced antibiotic usage by 99% through vaccination technology, setting a significant demonstration effect. It is projected that by 2029, the Asia-Pacific region will account for 47% of the global aquatic vaccine market, while China's market compound growth rate will reach 11.5%. Physical-driven technologies not only reduce vaccine costs but also effectively control disease-related mortality rates, aligning with both the evolving needs of the aquaculture market and the development requirements for reducing antibiotic dependence and controlling disease transmission through vaccination.

2.3 the Monkey King of Creativity —— November 2024

When conceptualizing the fish vaccine project, we sought to create an engaging and accessible explanation of how vaccines work. The inspiration came from a classic episode of ”Journey to the West“—— where Sun Wukong enters Princess Iron Fan's body to solve a problem. This story inspired us: the process of vaccines entering fish bodies and providing protection mirrors Sun Wukong's entry into Princess Iron Fan's body to resolve her crisis. Through this metaphor, the fish body symbolizes Princess Iron Fan's womb, while the vaccine transforms into Sun Wukong-like substance that defends against diseases within the body. We also connected the gradual evolution of bacterial cell structures from small to large with Sun Wukong's magical ability to transform. By combining scientific principles with this beloved story, we developed a vivid and easy-to-understand explanation of vaccination, making complex processes accessible and enjoyable for everyone.

2.4. Discussion of experimental scheme ——November 2024

We identified three approaches———light-driven, sound-driven, and magnetically driven—to achieve external physical signal control of the vaccine bacteria' directional movement for creating "micro-robots". After thorough research and discussions, we abandoned the magnetic drive solution due to practical limitations and biocompatibility concerns, instead focusing on light-driven and sound-driven systems.

Figure 8. Programme discussion

In the research of light-driven technologies, we have discovered an upconversion microgel capable of converting near-infrared light into blue light. However, due to its high cost and manufacturing challenges, it remains limited to theoretical research at present. Additionally, we developed a blue light-responsive transcription system that can enrich engineered microbial communities in fish intestinal mucosa. Nevertheless, this technology still requires breakthroughs for integrated applications in micro-robots.

For the acoustic drive system, considering that fish are difficult to adapt to ultrasonic heating, we limit it to enhance bacterial invasion through ultrasound.

We have conducted in-depth research on bacterial invasion mechanisms and proposed strategies such as outer membrane vesicle construction and targeting peptide design, though these approaches remained impractical due to technical limitations. These concepts warrant further exploration. Under Professor Ma Yue's guidance, we shifted our focus to achieving directional movement through engineered ——proteins (flagella) utilizing optoacoustic synergy. The light-based solution employs a photosensitive promoter to regulate CheY and CheZ gene expression, while constructing logic gate circuits for precise navigation. The acoustic-driven approach revealed that mechanically sensitive ion channels MscL (or MscS) can activate calcium ion influx via ultrasound, thereby enhancing flagellar rotation speed and motility.

Figure 9. Experimental exploration

On-the-spot-investigation

3.1 China Hebei Qinhuangdao Zhenli Aquatic Products —— May 2025

3.1.1 Background and Purpose

To gain a deeper understanding of the current status of modern aquaculture and the practical application of fish vaccination technology, we plan to conduct field research at the Qinhuangdao Fishery in Hebei Province, China. As an important fishery base in China, Qinhuangdao not only boasts abundant fishery resources but also possesses advanced breeding techniques. This research aims to understand the challenges currently faced by the fishery industry, the actual operational procedures for vaccination, and how technological innovation drives industrial development through communication with local fishermen and fishery enterprises.

3.1.2 Practice Content

Upon arriving at Qinhuangdao Aquaculture Farm, we first engaged with the facility manager to understand its overall layout, breeding scale, main species, and daily management processes. Through on-site inspections of fish ponds, breeding workshops, and related facilities, we gained a comprehensive understanding of the entire aquaculture operation. We particularly focused on the farm's smart management system, learning how IoT technology enables real-time monitoring of water quality and fish health. During our visit, we learned that Qinhuangdao boasts 480,000 mu (approximately 30,000 hectares) of integrated marine aquaculture areas combining shallow sea raft farming, ocean ranch bottom seeding, and saltwater pond cultivation, along with 1.6 million cubic meters of industrialized aquaculture water bodies. These are mainly distributed across Beidaihe New Area and Changle County, primarily cultivating scallops, sea cucumbers, flounder, flatfish, half-smooth tongue sole, and shrimp. We also discovered that the operational "Jiuteng No.1" intelligent deep-sea cage is equipped with solar photovoltaic power generation systems, feed storage modules, underwater video surveillance, and real-time water quality monitoring devices, achieving modernized smart aquaculture.

Figure 10. Field research

3.1.3 Application of Vaccination Techniques

We focused on the practical operations of fishery vaccination. Through in-depth communication with technicians and fishermen, we comprehensively understood the advantages and disadvantages of current vaccination methods (such as injection and immersion), and explored how to improve vaccination efficiency and reduce labor costs in large-scale aquaculture. Additionally, we investigated the application prospects of physical drive technologies (such as light-driven and sound-driven systems) in vaccination, analyzing how these technologies enhance vaccine utilization rates and immunization effectiveness. It is reported that disease issues are particularly prominent in aquaculture processes, with over 200 known pathogens, and vaccination is considered the most effective method for preventing and controlling aquatic animal diseases. Currently, China has conducted research on more than 50 aquatic vaccines targeting nearly 30 pathogens, but their market promotion and application remain limited. As of April 2025, only seven self-developed aquatic vaccines have obtained national new veterinary drug certificates.

3.1.4 Feedback from fishers and fisheries enterprises

Through face-to-face dialogues with fishermen and representatives from fishery enterprises, we gathered their feedback on existing vaccination technologies while gaining insights into practical challenges encountered in field operations, including vaccine costs, post-vaccination stress responses in fish, and storage requirements. We also explored their acceptance levels and expectations for new technologies, as well as how technological innovations could address current challenges. By analyzing local market trends for premium aquatic products, we identified consumer priorities regarding health and safety standards. The study revealed how fishery enterprises are meeting market demands through technological advancements while addressing these concerns. Furthermore, we examined the role of vaccination technology in enhancing product quality and boosting market competitiveness within the fisheries sector.

Figure 11. Practice exchange and feedback

3.1.5 Results and Implications

The field study of Qinhuangdao's aquaculture operations has yielded valuable insights for modern aquaculture practices. This research not only optimized vaccination protocols and parameter settings to meet practical needs but also enhanced hardware design, validated modular feasibility, and adopted adaptive control systems inspired by intelligent management solutions. Through discussions with fishermen and industry partners, we identified innovation directions in key technological fields including automated injection systems, submerged aquaculture technology, physical drive mechanisms, and integrated monitoring systems.

3.2 China Hainan Wanning Linlan Group ——June 2025

3.2.1 Background and purpose

Our project is dedicated to modernizing and ensuring sustainable aquaculture development through innovative fish vaccine technologies. To gain in-depth insights into tropical marine fish farming practices, particularly the breeding techniques for Oriental sea urchins (Pseudotrichodactylus orientalis), we conducted field research at Hainan Wanning Linlan Group. We also participated in their Oriental sea urchin breeding training programs and industry networking events with sector leaders.

As a leading aquaculture enterprise in Wanning, Hainan, Linlan Group specializes in cultivating high-value species such as Oriental sea urchins and red seabream (Pseudotrichodactylus redus). Through collaboration with the research team led by Academician Chen Songlin from the Yellow Sea Fisheries Research Institute of the Chinese Academy of Sciences, the company has achieved a major breakthrough in Oriental sea urchin breeding by successfully overcoming key reproductive bottlenecks.

3.2.2 Practice Content

Through in-depth communication with the management of Linlan Group, we had a deep understanding of the company's development history, business vision, breeding scale, market positioning, etc., and also conducted field investigation on the breeding environment of Dongxing Spotted Fish Farm, including key links such as fish ponds, feeding, epidemic prevention, etc.

Figure 12. Enterprise symposiums

Vaccination has emerged as a pivotal strategy in aquaculture disease prevention and control. Global research on aquaculture vaccines is closely tied to developing economically sustainable management models that prioritize environmental protection [7]. Historically, most approved fish vaccines involved combining inactivated pathogens with adjuvants, administered through immersion or injection methods. Understanding how Linlan Group integrates these vaccination approaches into its disease prevention system holds significant value for our research.

3.2.3 Vaccine technical exchanges

Our team participated in the technical training program organized by Linlan Group for Wanning Dongxing Fish Farming, where we systematically learned the latest vaccination techniques. Through in-depth discussions with technical experts like Academician Chen Songlin, we explored critical aspects such as vaccine selection, timing, and dosage control. This exchange provided valuable firsthand data and practical experience for our project. An ideal fish vaccine should possess core characteristics including safety, efficacy, cost-effectiveness, and ease of administration. During discussions, we focused on how to achieve these attributes in Oriental Starfish vaccine development. For instance, ensuring vaccine safety means it should not harm fish. In 2024, Uweks Company announced the successful development of a novel epitope vaccine that effectively prevents Spondylodermis desiderata virus (SDDV) infection, marking a significant step forward in vaccine effectiveness assurance. Understanding how these concepts translate into the development of Oriental Starfish vaccines holds great significance for our project.

Figure 13. Technical exchanges

3.2.4 Results and implications

Following the completion of this field study, we conducted an analysis of current market demands for Dongxingba premium aquatic products and identified key consumer concerns regarding food safety and health. Through in-depth research and technical training programs, we have developed the following findings: Exploring how aquaculture enterprises can leverage technological innovation to meet market needs, thereby enhancing product competitiveness.

3.3 China Shandong Guoxin Oriental Aquaculture Base--July 2025

3.3.1 Practical purpose

In order to further understand the current situation of industrial aquaculture and the application of fish seedling vaccine immunization technology in actual production, we plan to conduct field research on Yantai Guoxin Oriental Aquaculture Base in Shandong Province.

3.3.2 Practice content

Upon arriving at Guoxin Oriental Aquaculture Base, we first engaged in an in-depth discussion with the production manager to systematically understand the facility's overall layout, production scale, major aquaculture species, and daily operational management model. Through visits to key areas including industrialized breeding workshops, recirculating water treatment systems, and vaccine operation zones, we gained a comprehensive understanding of the entire operational process from fry stocking, water quality control, disease prevention to fish harvesting. Special attention was paid to the intelligent monitoring system implemented at the base, with detailed insights into how IoT technology is applied in water quality monitoring, fish behavior tracking, and automated feeding systems.

Figure 14. Field research

3.3.3 Application of immunization techniques

We focused on the practice of base vaccination operation, and had in-depth communication with technicians about the specific problems existing in the current immunization mode:

1. The physical damage and stress response caused to the fish body during the injection seriously affected the subsequent growth and survival rate of the fish.
2. There were significant differences in vaccine protection rates at different injection sites, depths and doses.
3. It is difficult to balance the efficiency and quality of existing methods due to the daily immunization flux requirements (e.g., thousands of fish per hour) under large-scale aquaculture conditions.

3.3.4 Results and implications

These practical challenges have clarified the development priorities and key areas for improvement in submerged immunization systems. Through face-to-face discussions with aquaculture managers and frontline staff, we gathered detailed feedback on existing immunization technologies. While injection-based methods demonstrate relatively stable efficacy, they involve cumbersome procedures requiring high technical expertise from operators and often cause fish injuries. The industry urgently needs innovative immunization approaches that reduce operational complexity, minimize fish stress responses, and ensure effective protection. Furthermore, our research uncovered specific corporate requirements regarding cost control, vaccine storage conditions, and effectiveness evaluation – all of which provide crucial practical references for our R&D efforts.

3.4 China Laizhou Mingbo Aquatic Products Co., Ltd. --July 2025

3.4.1 Background and Purpose

To gain deeper insights into the current state of aquaculture in En and practical applications of fish vaccination techniques, we plan to conduct an on-site investigation at Mingbo Aquatic Products Co., Ltd. in Laizhou, Yantai City, Shandong Province. As one of China's key aquatic demonstration bases, Mingbo Aquatic Products is renowned for its advanced breeding technologies, intelligent management systems, and sustainable development model. This research aims to engage in in-depth discussions with technical staff and managers at the facility, comprehensively understand challenges faced by the aquaculture industry, examine practical implementation processes of vaccination protocols, and explore how technological innovation can drive quality improvement and efficiency enhancement in the sector.

3.4.2 Practice Content

Upon arriving at the Mingbo Aquaculture Base, we commenced an in-depth discussion with the facility director, gaining comprehensive insights into the company's R&D journey, corporate culture, and industrial framework. Since its establishment, Mingbo Aquaculture has consistently embraced the philosophy of "technology-driven innovation and sustainable development," progressively building a complete industrial chain system that spans from seedling cultivation and fish farming to product processing and distribution. Through our tour of the exhibition hall and historical archives, we witnessed firsthand the remarkable achievements made by Mingbo Aquaculture in species selection, technological advancement, and market expansion. These accomplishments have provided crucial reference points for subsequent research endeavors.

We then focused on visiting Mingbo Aquatic's intelligent recirculating water nursery workshop. The facility employs an advanced water treatment system and IoT monitoring technology, enabling real-time tracking and automated adjustment of critical parameters including water temperature, dissolved oxygen, and pH levels. Through hands-on observation and technical staff guidance, we gained comprehensive understanding of efficient seedling cultivation processes, feed strategy implementation, and pest control measures. Particularly noteworthy were the recirculating water system's advantages in conserving water resources and reducing environmental pollution. This practical experience provided crucial evidence for our research on vaccine immunization technology application scenarios.

Figure 15. Enterprise visit

3.4.3 Corporate Communications

We held a specialized seminar with Mingbo Aquatic's technical team, focusing on research advancements in fish vaccine delivery systems and physical-driven immunization technologies. Participants engaged in in-depth discussions about the practical effectiveness, operational challenges, and scalability of existing vaccination methods (such as injections and immersion techniques). Mingbo Aquatic shared insights into real-world issues encountered during vaccine administration, including immune stress responses, vaccination efficiency, and cost-effectiveness considerations. The company also provided valuable suggestions for optimizing project technologies, particularly regarding automated injection devices, immersion immunization protocols, and evaluation methodologies for immunization efficacy.

Figure 16. Technology sharing

3.4.4 Results and Implications

The research at Mingbo Aquaculture Base has not only deepened our understanding of modern aquaculture practices, but also provided crucial frontline production data and optimization directions for team project development. Through communication, we identified bottlenecks in vaccine immunization technology implementation and developed strategies for creating efficient, cost-effective immunization solutions suitable for large-scale adoption. Meanwhile, Mingbo's intelligent management system and green farming model have offered valuable references for our technical integration and modular design.

3.5 China Shandong Yantai Tianyuan Aquatic Products Co., LTD. --August 2025

3.5.1 Background and Purpose

As a key marine economy hub in Shandong Province, Yantai boasts abundant aquatic resources and advanced aquaculture technologies. Tianyuan Aquaculture Co., Ltd., a flagship enterprise in the city's aquaculture sector, serves as both a national-level premium flounder breeding center and a provincial-level original breeding base. The company maintains industry leadership in marine fish fry cultivation and aquaculture practices. This field study examines Tianyuan's aquaculture models, germplasm innovation technologies, and disease prevention systems to gain deeper insights into the current state and future trends of modern aquaculture, with particular focus on the practical implementation of fish vaccination techniques.

3.5.2 Practice Content

The research team first examined Tianyuan Aquaculture's industrialized recirculating aquaculture system. The company began conducting feasibility studies, design, and preparatory work for semi-closed recirculating aquaculture in 2008, officially commencing production in March 205. The system currently maintains approximately 1,600 cubic meters of semi-closed recirculating water bodies, primarily cultivating turbot (also known as mandarin fish). The water treatment process follows a closed-loop path: "reclaimed water → recirculation pumps → elevated tank → temperature regulation pool → oxygenation → disinfection → breeding pond," with daily seawater replenishment at about 5% and complete water replacement every 6-7 days. Equipped with pure oxygen tanks and two sets of recirculating water treatment systems, the facility achieves a processing capacity of 200 cubic meters per hour. The water clarity in breeding areas reaches approximately 40 centimeters, ensuring optimal aquatic conditions. Compared to traditional open aquaculture models, Tianyuan's recirculating system demonstrates significant advantages. Data shows this system saves 85% water and 50% electricity compared to conventional methods. In turbot cultivation, initial stocking fry weighing 280-300 grams at a density of 30 kg/m³ can reach an average weight of 65 grams within 120 days, achieving a 5% higher growth rate than conventional approaches.

In disease prevention and control, Tianyuan Aquatic Products has established a comprehensive health management system. As a key demonstration base for aquatic animal disease control in Yantai City, the company actively participates in monitoring initiatives organized by the Yantai Marine Development and Fisheries Bureau. During our research, we focused on its vaccination practices. Having weathered two major "drug residue" incidents in 2006 and 2015, this leading mandarin fish breeder has intensified efforts in healthy aquaculture and scientific disease prevention. The company's registered "Penglai Ge" trademark enables full traceability from seedling cultivation to market distribution, ensuring product safety. While primarily using injection methods, Tianyuan is also exploring alternative immunization approaches like immersion and oral administration. Technical staff noted that although injections provide stable protection, their cumbersome procedures and stress-induced reactions in fish make developing new immunization techniques imperative.

Figure 17. Field survey

3.5.3 Practical Significance

Through in-depth research on Tianyuan Aquatic Products, we have gained valuable practical experience in modern aquaculture, especially fish vaccination technology. The main results of this research include:

Tianyuan Aquaculture's recirculating aquaculture model provides crucial technical optimization references. This innovative approach not only conserves water and electricity but also accelerates fish growth, establishing it as a vital pathway for sustainable aquaculture development. Particularly under the current backdrop of increasingly stringent environmental regulations, recirculating aquaculture technology demonstrates significant promotion value. Regarding vaccination techniques, Tianyuan Aquaculture's practices have clarified the direction for technological innovation. Based on research findings, our team has prioritized developing automated injection systems, submerged immunization technology, and oral vaccine delivery systems to address current pain points in vaccination processes.

As a pioneering enterprise in China's marine aquaculture sector, Tianyuan Aquatic has charted the course for the industry's transformation through its evolution. From successfully introducing the Chinese tilapia to achieving industrial scale-up, and from overcoming two major drug residue scandals to establishing comprehensive quality assurance systems, the company's journey offers valuable lessons for the entire industry. Research findings indicate that germplasm innovation and disease prevention constitute the dual core drivers of modern aquaculture development. Through collaboration with research institutions, Tianyuan has made significant strides in germplasm conservation and genetic enhancement, laying a solid foundation for sustainable industry growth. The innovative application of vaccination technology stands as a critical component in ensuring biosecurity in aquaculture. This research provides clear guidance for our technological development. We will develop efficient, cost-effective immunization technologies tailored to Tianyuan's practical needs, contributing to the modernization of China's aquaculture industry.

3.6 Liaoning Huludao Individual Farmers Exchange in China--September 2025

3.6.1 Background and Purpose

As an important aquaculture base in Liaoning Province, Huludao City holds a unique position in China's aquaculture industry. Located in southwestern Liaoning and adjacent to the Bohai Sea, the area lies within the north latitude 40° golden aquaculture belt, with abundant natural well salt water resources underground. The production of turbot in Huludao accounts for approximately 58% of China's total aquaculture output, earning it the reputation that "one out of every two mandarin fish consumed worldwide originates from Huludao." This practical research aims to investigate the actual operational conditions of individual farmers in Huludao who face relatively backward breeding facilities and outdated equipment. We particularly focus on the unique challenges these small-scale farmers encounter in seedling selection, farming models, disease prevention, and marketing, seeking to identify key factors constraining their development and providing empirical evidence for improving production conditions for small-scale farmers.

3.6.2 Practice Content

The survey primarily targeted small-scale aquaculture operators, particularly those with relatively outdated facilities and basic equipment. We conducted in-depth face-to-face interviews with over 20 individual aquaculture businesses, all operating on a small scale with investment amounts ranging from tens of thousands to hundreds of thousands of yuan.

The infrastructure of individual aquaculture operators in Huludao remains rudimentary, with relatively outdated breeding conditions. Most small-scale operators use basic fish farming sheds and ponds lacking modern recirculating water systems and temperature control equipment. Compared to large-scale enterprises, these independent farmers face significant underinvestment in facilities, which hinders the improvement of breeding efficiency. At the Cold Water Aquaculture Cooperative in Xianglushan Village, Xintaimen Town, Lianshan District, we observed relatively simple facilities: "At the foot of the mountain, over 30 fish ponds measuring 6 meters wide and 5-18 meters long are visible, with rows of small injectors resembling miniature waterfalls channeling clear spring water into the pools." While this nature-dependent approach requires minimal investment, it suffers from high environmental sensitivity and low productivity. In contrast, large-scale enterprises typically employ factory-style recirculating aquaculture systems that enable precise environmental control. Limited by financial constraints, small operators struggle to upgrade their infrastructure, remaining stuck with traditional farming methods. This disparity in facilities directly impacts breeding density, survival rates, and product quality.

Figure 18. Talk with farmers

3.6.3 Key Challenges and Dilemmas

Funding shortages remain the primary obstacle hindering the development of individual aquaculture businesses in Huludao. Small-scale operators commonly face dual challenges: inadequate initial investments and tight operating budgets. The substantial capital required for establishing breeding facilities and purchasing equipment proves particularly challenging, as these entrepreneurs typically lack sufficient personal funds to cover such expenses.

Technological backwardness remains a critical challenge for individual aquaculture operators in Huludao. Small-scale farmers generally lack professional expertise and technical support in breeding techniques, disease prevention, and water quality management, relying primarily on traditional experience to make farming decisions. This technological deficiency not only reduces production efficiency but also heightens operational risks in the industry.

3.6.4 Optimization Suggestions

To enhance the competitiveness of individual aquaculture operators in Huludao, priority should be given to upgrading infrastructure and modernizing equipment. The government and enterprises must collaborate to assist these operators in renovating their facilities, promoting practical technologies and advanced equipment, thereby advancing the sector's modernization. Specific measures could include:

• Promoting practical aquaculture models: Tailored to individual farmers 'needs, we advocate low-investment and easy-to-implement farming approaches. A prime example is the "Large Flatfish + Shellfish" integrated cultivation model, which reduces annual pollutant emissions by 2,000 tons and has been recognized as a "Green Aquaculture Model Case Study" by China's Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs.
• Provide equipment subsidies or leasing services: In view of the shortage of funds for individual businesses, small-scale and low-cost technical equipment subsidies can be provided, or equipment leasing platforms can be established to reduce the threshold of technology application for individual businesses.
• Strengthening infrastructure co-construction and sharing: Encourage individual businesses to build and share water treatment facilities, cold chain logistics and other infrastructure through cooperatives, so as to improve the efficiency of resource utilization.

Consulations

Dongxing Spot Breeding Technology Training in Wanning, Hainan

4.1.1 Purpose of the Training Session

The core goal of the "Dongxing Spotted Fish Cultivation Technology Training and Leading Enterprise Connection Conference" held by Wanning City on August 2-3, 2025 is to promote the green and high-quality development of Dongxing Spotted fish industry in Wanning through technology-driven industrial upgrading and build a platform for industry-university-research cooperation to solve practical production problems.

4.1.2 Technical Collaboration Workshops

At the industry-leading aquaculture matchmaking event, Professor Wang Qi'ao engaged in in-depth discussions with representatives from multiple breeding enterprises regarding vaccine technology collaboration, sharing successful case studies. He introduced our developed "Sun Wukong Fish Vaccine" to the companies, emphasizing its technical feasibility and operational convenience while exploring potential cooperation opportunities. Through collaborative discussions on enhancing overall breeding techniques, reducing risks, and improving product quality through technological partnerships, we ultimately reached a mutually beneficial consensus.

Figure 19. Experience sharing

Prior to the workshop, we produced a manual on prevention of diseases in marine fish and distributed it at the registration desk. This initiative not only raised initial awareness but also served as promotional material for our project.

Figure 20. Distribution of teaching materials

4.1.3 Outcome of the Session

Establishing partnerships with industry leaders paves the way for future technological collaboration and market expansion, accelerating project industrialization. Collaborating with aquatic industry pioneers like Linlan Group provides access to diverse perspectives and resources. For instance, the partnership between Linlan Group and Academician Chen Songlin's team achieved a major breakthrough in eastern starfish breeding. Through in-depth exchanges, we identified complementary areas where vaccine technology could enhance their existing operations, enabling the development of more comprehensive solutions that maximize industry-wide benefits and consumer interests.

Through in-depth collaboration with aquaculture enterprises, we have gained precise insights into market demands and consumer preferences, establishing a strategic foundation for product positioning and marketing strategies. With growing public concern over the safety and health of aquatic products, our partnership with farming companies allows deeper understanding of these needs. For instance, when consumers raise concerns about antibiotic residues in fish, our developed vaccine technology——a solution that reduces antibiotic usage in aquaculture—can be effectively promoted. The landmark "Pike Vaccine" successfully developed by East China University of Science and Technology in 2013 has demonstrated potential to decrease antibiotic consumption in tilapia farming. Similarly, our "Sun Wukong Fish Vaccine" has garnered positive market feedback due to its unique advantage in addressing consumer pain points.

Our innovative initiatives not only provide aquaculture enterprises with cutting-edge vaccination solutions, but also enhance farming efficiency and fish health through intelligent management systems. We are confident that partnering with industry leaders like Linlan Group will accelerate the application of our technologies in the Oriental sea urchin sector, driving sustainable development in fisheries.

4.2 2025 China Industrial Expo

4.2.1 Overview

This fall, the iGEM team from East China University of Science and Technology made a stunning debut at the China International Industry Fair (CIIF), showcasing their self-developed "Continuous Submersion Inoculation System for Aquatic Organisms". At this global event gathering industry leaders, our innovative project stood out with its unique technical solution and promising application prospects, garnering significant attention from the industry.

Figure 21. Group photo of the Industrial Expo

4.2.2 Exhibition Content

As China's most influential and largest industrial exhibition, the China International Industry Fair (CIIF) has always been a barometer of cutting-edge technology and market trends. Our participation demonstrates that frontier academic research is steadily advancing into core areas of industrial application. This grand event also serves as a vital platform for industrial innovation, where global industry leaders such as Schneider Electric, Mitsubishi Electric, Bosch Group, and FANUC have showcased their latest explorations in the deep integration of artificial intelligence and industrial applications.

During the exhibition, many leading enterprises in aquaculture, animal health and other industries had in-depth communication with us, highly praised the practicality and forward-looking design of the project, clearly expressed the willingness to cooperate and the intention of follow-up communication, and opened up a good prospect for the future implementation of technology.

We not only showcased our achievements—— but also actively learned from other corporate and university teams. These valuable interactions provided us with abundant inspiration and gathered critical insights for optimizing equipment and improving experiments in the next phase.

Figure 22. Field communication

4.2.3 Significance of the Exhibition

This debut at the International Aquatic Food Exhibition marks a crucial step in our university's research projects transitioning from laboratory to market. The team from East China University of Science and Technology has consistently dedicated itself to innovation, driving this technology toward practical applications, enabling the wisdom and strength of young Chinese scientists to contribute to the sustainable development of the global aquaculture industry.

Team Exchanges

5.1 IGEM offline exchange between Xi 'an Jiaotong-Liverpool University and Nanjing University of Technology

This collaborative event aimed to foster knowledge sharing and innovative collaboration among university iGEM teams in synthetic biology. Representatives from East China University of Science and Technology's iGEM team, Xi' an Jiaotong-Liverpool University, and Nanjing Tech University engaged in in-depth discussions on competition preparation, interdisciplinary collaboration models, and social outreach initiatives. Through team presentations, group workshops, and laboratory visits, the three institutions exchanged constructive insights on enhancing project scientific rigor, engineering feasibility, and societal impact.

The Xi 'an Jiaotong-Liverpool University team shared their cross-college selection mechanism and international talent cultivation model, emphasizing the enhancement of team collaboration efficiency through modular division of labor (experimentation, modeling, humanities practice). Nanjing Tech University introduced its experience in echelon construction based on disciplinary strengths, providing new ideas for optimizing team composition and succession mechanisms at our university. All parties agreed that synthetic biology must be closely integrated with practical application scenarios. Xi' an Jiaotong-Liverpool University's case studies in biomedical industrialization (such as collaborations with Suzhou Industrial Park) demonstrated pathways for aligning academic research with industrial demands; Nanjing Tech University's experience in engineering platform construction offered references for technology implementation in our university's projects. Teams from all three universities emphasized science popularization and social research. Xi' an Jiaotong-Liverpool University enhanced public awareness of synthetic biology through community engagement, while Nanjing Tech University focused on integrating projects with local industrial needs. These practices inspired our university to further optimize the "research-society" bidirectional empowerment model.

This exchange has strengthened consensus on inter-institutional collaboration and expanded the team's multidimensional understanding of iGEM competition objectives. The iGEM team from East China University of Science and Technology will incorporate advanced experiences, continuously optimize project design, and actively promote in-depth cooperation with sister institutions to jointly advance the innovation ecosystem in synthetic biology.

Figure 23. Team exchanges

5.2 Shanghai Xuhui Youth Center IGEM team exchange

The iGEM team from East China University of Science and Technology engaged in academic exchanges with the Shanghai Xuhui Youth Center's iGem program. During this event, team members not only showcased cutting-edge research in synthetic biology but also immersed themselves in the unique community atmosphere of the youth center, achieving a profound dialogue between scientific innovation and social practice. In the exchange session, the team discussed their annual competition project "Sun Wukong" ———an aquaculture vaccine delivery system based on light-controlled genetic circuits—with young innovators at the youth center. The project integrates Sun Wukong's "precision adaptation" wisdom into synthetic biology design, demonstrating a clever fusion of traditional humanistic spirit and modern technological innovation. Young participants' sharp questions about technical details and cross-disciplinary perspectives provided fresh inspiration for optimizing the project.

This collaboration not only strengthened the partnership between the university and local community, but also helped team members recognize the importance of aligning research projects with societal needs. Moving forward, the team plans to incorporate feedback from the Youth Center into project iterations while exploring regular community engagement through science outreach lectures and bio-art exhibitions. These initiatives aim to bring synthetic biology out of laboratories and into broader social contexts. The integration of scientific rigor with community engagement, where innovation coexists with human warmth, has revitalized East China University of Science and Technology's iGEM team. This exchange event has demonstrated the unique value of Xuhui Youth Center as a platform for youth innovation practices.

Figure 24. Team exchanges

5.3 Guanghua Team Exchange

Recently, the iGEM team from East China University of Science and Technology (ECUST) and Shanghai Guanghua United Team held a productive online academic exchange session. Focusing on innovative applications of synthetic biology in aquaculture, this collaboration provided both parties with a valuable platform for project discussions and experience sharing. During the presentation segment, Guanghua United Team showcased their attenuated live vaccine project targeting white spot disease in yellow croaker viscera. The team innovatively combined AI and bioinformatics methods to predict key virulence factors, followed by expression validation in Escherichia coli, aiming to effectively replace antibiotic use and promote sustainable aquaculture development. ECUST's Wukong Team presented research progress in preventing Edwardsiella parasiticosis in mandarin fish, highlighting the design of light-controlled gene circuit-based vaccine delivery systems and automated immersion inoculation equipment inspired by Sun Wukong mythology. In discussions, both sides delved into experimental design and humanistic practices. Regarding animal testing alternatives, they proposed innovative ideas using organoid models to simulate intestinal environments. For humanistic practices, they exchanged experiences on building complete scientific storytelling chains and reached consensus on expanding science communication inclusivity (such as designing Braille picture books and conducting targeted science education for middle-aged and elderly groups). This exchange not only deepened mutual understanding in technical solutions but also laid a solid foundation for future collaboration. We look forward to deeper cooperation with Guanghua United Team in synthetic biology, contributing youthful wisdom to green aquaculture and marine ecological protection.

Figure 25. Online communication