With interactive activities on mussel farming and marine ecosystem health
On October 30, in Calbuco, with the aim of bringing marine science closer to the school community, professionals from the Aquaculture Research Division of the Fisheries Development Institute (IFOP) participated in the Science Fair of San Miguel School in Calbuco, with informational and demonstrative stands. The event brought together students from different schools, teachers and families from the commune, who were able to learn, in a practical and engaging way, about the scientific work carried out by IFOP in the region.
Professionals Macarena Herrera, Óscar Ramírez and María Paz Navarrete, from the Departments of Environment and Hydrobiological Health, presented content related to mussel farming, the study of other marine cultures and the analysis of parasites extracted from free-living, native and farmed fish. The presentations combined technical information with game-based activities that encouraged participation, especially among primary and secondary school students.
In the exhibition area, visitors had the opportunity to interact with educational materials and with the interactive platform of the Mussel Larval Monitoring Program, a project developed by IFOP in its thirteenth stage. This digital tool allows real-time visualization of larval monitoring processes in different areas of the country, providing key data to understand the reproductive cycle of mussels and their relationship with environmental conditions. The platform is also a valuable scientific outreach tool that facilitates the learning of oceanographic and biological concepts in an accessible way for students and teachers.
Later in the afternoon, the IFOP team visited the Calbuco Polytechnic High School, where they delivered an educational talk on mussel farming and the sustainability of marine resources. During this session, the main challenges of the mussel farming sector were addressed, such as environmental management, water quality and the possibilities of measuring variables in simple ways to implement research initiatives from the classroom.
The activity included a practical component using paper microscopes (Foldscope), led by researcher Óscar Ramírez, which allowed students to observe microscopic organisms and understand their importance in the balance of the aquatic ecosystem.
These activities, developed jointly by the Aquaculture Research Division, the Department of Environment and the Department of Hydrobiological Health, reinforce IFOP’s commitment to scientific education, applied research and the training of new generations interested in the conservation and responsible use of marine resources. The collaborative work among these units has made it possible to create a comprehensive educational approach that combines science, technology and citizen participation.
IFOP’s presence in Calbuco is particularly significant considering that this commune is one of the main development centers for mussel farming in Chile, an activity that represents an economic and social pillar for the south of the country. In this context, interaction with educational institutions seeks to strengthen the link between scientific research and the local community, contributing to the construction of a more aware and participatory ocean culture.
Likewise, the incorporation of playful methodologies and interactive tools has allowed students to better understand the importance of environmental monitoring, ecosystem health and aquaculture sustainability. These experiences encourage scientific curiosity, critical observation and respect for the marine environment, fundamental pillars for advancing toward more sustainable management of aquatic resources.
Finally, IFOP’s participation in this fair and in outreach activities at the Polytechnic High School reaffirms the relevance of the institution’s work in research, education and territorial engagement, highlighting its commitment to disseminating scientific knowledge and supporting the sustainable development of coastal communities in the country.
