In a major boost to the aquaculture innovation ecosystem, students from the Department of Aquaculture at Kerala University of Fisheries and Ocean Studies (KUFOS) have launched one of the country’s first university-incubated startups focused exclusively on crab aquaculture and crab health management.Incubated under the Atal Incubation Centre (AIC-KUFOS Kochi Foundation), the startup is developing a range of innovative products and technologies aimed at enhancing the sustainability, productivity and profitability of commercial crab farming.Among its early achievements are the development of specialised crab feed, CrabRAS water quality management solutions, and a dedicated crab mineral supplement designed to improve growth, health and survival of cultured crabs. Several additional products and technology solutions are currently under development.The venture was initiated by Naveen Nivas, Sanjay Kumar, Jabaraj, Bavitra, Snesh, Prajith and Jovin with active participation and support from students of the Department of Aquaculture. The startup is also promoting sustainable crab farming practices through training programmes on CrabRAS (Crab Recirculatory Aquaculture System) technology and by providing technical guidance and field-level support to farmers.The initiative seeks to bridge the gap between academic research and commercial aquaculture by translating scientific innovations into practical solutions for the farming community. Through farmer engagement, capacity-building programmes and technology transfer, the startup aims to strengthen India’s emerging crab aquaculture sector.The student-led enterprise has received strong institutional support from A. Biju Kumar, Vice Chancellor of KUFOS; Dinesh Kaippilly, Registrar of KUFOS; and Radhika Rajasree, Director of the Atal Incubation Centre, who have consistently encouraged innovation, entrepreneurship and industry-oriented research among students.KUFOS officials said that the startup exemplifies the university’s commitment to nurturing next-generation entrepreneurs capable of developing science-based solutions for the fisheries and aquaculture sectors. The initiative is expected to create new opportunities for technology-driven aquaculture development while contributing to employment generation, farmer empowerment and the growth of the blue economy.With India emerging as a major aquaculture producer, the KUFOS-incubated startup represents a pioneering step toward building a dedicated innovation ecosystem for crab farming and associated value chains, a note issued here said.Published on June 7, 2026