CryoLab develops research projects focused on the cryopreservation of different marine organisms, from microalgae to invertebrates and fish. Each initiative aims to better understand the biological mechanisms that determine the success of freezing and to translate that knowledge into practical applications. The projects combine basic research and technological transfer, with results applied in biological collections, hatcheries, and marine research centers.
All these projects share the same purpose: to turn research into useful tools for the conservation and sustainable use of marine resources. Through them, CryoLab contributes to building a solid scientific foundation that enables the storage, study, and enhancement of ocean biodiversity.
Project focused on the transfer of cryopreservation protocols for marine invertebrates to CIMA, with a special focus on mussels and clams. The work includes scaling up volumes using blood bank–type bags, with the goal of producing batches of cryopreserved larvae ready for use in small-scale hatcheries. It is currently in its second year of development.
Involved lines: bivalves, technological transfer.
Collaborations: CIMA – Universidade de Vigo.
Basic research in cryobiology of marine fish. It is based on the model species Cyprinodon variegatus, a resistant species used as a reference, and its ultimate goal is to develop a protocol applicable to turbot (Scophthalmus maximus). To date, there is no functional method for cryopreserving marine fish eggs, making this project a significant scientific challenge.
Involved lines: gametes, fish eggs, developmental biology.
Collaborations: CIM-UVigo.
Project dedicated to the cryopreservation of Aurelia aurita, a jellyfish species with a high water content, making it a biologically valuable model. The first phase was successfully completed, and the second phase (ICE Medusa 2) has already been submitted, aimed at optimizing techniques and evaluating their reproducibility.
Involved lines: gelatinous organisms, biological modeling.
Collaborations: CIM-UVigo, associated European institutions.
Focused on the cryopreservation of marine microalgae. It studies 10 species belonging to the same family, subjected to a salinity gradient ranging from freshwater to marine environments. The project includes a three-month research stay at the Coimbra Algotheque, where field experiments are conducted and protocols are validated.
Involved lines: microalgae, environmental conditions, salinity variability.
Collaborations: Coimbra Algotheque (Portugal)
From basic research to practice: protocols already in use in collections, hatcheries, and marine research centers.
