Italia-Croatia

Everything is ready for Aquafarm 2026, the international trade fair dedicated to aquaculture, shellfish farming, algae cultivation, and the fisheries industry, taking place on 18–19 February 2026 at the Pordenone Exhibition Centre. Recognised as one of the leading Euro-Mediterranean events for professionals, researchers, and companies in the sector, Aquafarm features high-level international conferences and a large exhibition area showcasing the latest technologies, innovations, and best practices in aquatic food production.

For the second consecutive year, the MARINET project will participate with a dedicated stand, located within the exhibition area reserved for the University of Udine (Department of Agri-food, Environmental and Animal Sciences) and for Interreg projects funded by the European Union. The stand will be shared with the Interreg Italy–Croatia project Brigantine and the Interreg Italy–Slovenia project Circular Rainbow, confirming the successful collaboration launched in the previous edition, which has already delivered positive results in strengthening cooperation and shared objectives on sustainable aquaculture and environmental protection.

Activities at the MARINET Stand
Researchers from the University of Udine and the Fakultet za menadžment u turizmu i ugostiteljstvu Sveučilišta u Rijeci will engage visitors through two main activities:
•    Giveaway Prize Quiz – An informative and educational experience focused on aquaculture and fish farming, covering the role of aquaculture in global fish production, farmed species, growth times, sustainable farming systems, and the nutritional value of farmed white fish. Participants who answer correctly will receive a special gift package.
•    Consumer Perception Survey – A questionnaire aimed at collecting insights into consumer awareness and perceptions related to aquaculture products and sustainability.
The stand will also feature posters and outreach materials presenting the project’s results, highlighting the first achievements in improving biosecurity, environmental sustainability, and economic competitiveness of Adriatic aquaculture and shellfish (flat oyster) farming through advanced technologies, digital tools, and innovative practices developed in cooperation with companies and regional stakeholders.

MARINET Workshops at Aquafarm 2026
(MASAF Arena – simultaneous IT/EN translation)
📅 18 February 2026 | 14:00–15:00
Workshop: “MARINET Project – Flat Oyster”
A technical and scientific discussion on the opportunities and challenges of sustainable flat oyster farming in Adriatic mariculture. The session will address integrated multi-trophic aquaculture (IMTA) approaches, production development, health and reproductive aspects, and strategies to extend product shelf life. It will conclude with a SWOT analysis and a questionnaire to support the development of shared guidelines and strengthen dialogue between researchers and stakeholders.
Programme / Speakers
•    Synergies and Innovations in Fish and Shellfish Farming – SWOT Analysis
Giuseppe Arcangeli (IZSVe) with Eraldo Rambaldi (A.M.A)
•    Development of Flat Oyster (Ostrea edulis) Farming and Integrated Mariculture
Igor Celić, Chamber of Trades and Crafts of Istria County
•    Health Aspects of Oysters and Monitoring of the Reproductive Cycle
Alessia Vetri (IZSVe), Francesca Errani (University of Udine – Di4A)
•    Evaluation of Methods to Extend the Shelf Life of Flat Oysters
Giuseppe Comi (University of Udine – Di4A)
•    Final Discussion / SWOT Analysis and Questionnaire
Giuseppe Arcangeli (IZSVe) with Eraldo Rambaldi (A.M.A)
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📅 19 February 2026 | 16:18–17:00
Workshop: “Interreg MARINET Project – Enhancing Biosecurity and Sustainability in Adriatic Mariculture”
A dedicated session focused on integrated solutions for real-time monitoring, data management, and risk analysis—core elements of the new biosecurity framework developed by MARINET. The workshop will explore how tools such as the MariNet PWA platform, artificial intelligence, and bioeconomic models can support more effective, sustainable, and data-driven decision-making in Adriatic mariculture.
Programme / Speakers
•    The Interreg MARINET Project: Synergies and Innovations in Fish and Shellfish Farming
Marco Galeotti (University of Udine – Di4A)
•    Biosecurity, Risk Assessment and Implementation of Vaccination in Mariculture
Snježana Zrnčić (Croatian Veterinary Institute)
•    MariNet PWA: Integrated Solutions for Real-Time Monitoring and Data Management
Paolo Tomè (University of Udine – Di4A, in collaboration with IZSVe)
•    Artificial Intelligence for Mariculture: Limitations and Opportunities
Beatrice Portelli (University of Udine)
•    Bioeconomic Models in Mariculture
Federico Nassivera, Ivan Cescon (University of Udine – Di4A)
•    Conclusions and Questionnaire for Participants
Marco Galeotti (University of Udine – Di4A)

With its presence at Aquafarm 2026, the MARINET project confirms its commitment to innovation, sustainability, and cross-border cooperation, strengthening the link between research, industry, and institutions for the future of Adriatic aquaculture and mariculture.