MHA 2026

Barcelona is among the most important cities showcasing Modernism, and Antoni Gaudi is its main representative. Just as Antoni Gaudí drew profound inspiration from nature's intricate designs to create Barcelona's most extraordinary architectural masterpieces, researchers addressing studies on immunity must turn to nature’s own blueprints to find sustainable solutions for fish farming.

Gaudí understood that nature holds the keys to both beauty and functionality, whereas the immune system of fish, particularly their mucosal-associated lymphoid tissues, has evolved over millions of years, representing nature's most sophisticated defence mechanisms. Like Gaudí, who saw in a leaf's structure the perfect design for a column, we must observe how fish immunity functions to design better farming practices. The delicate balance of immune responses, the elegant communication between cells, tissues, organs and the whole body, and the remarkable adaptability of aquatic organisms offer a blueprint for healthier and more resilient aquaculture systems.

The Organising Committee of the 4th International Symposium on Mucosal Health in Aquaculture (MHA2026) is delighted to invite you to be part of this outstanding event, which will be held at one of Barcelona’s architectural masterpieces, the Recinte Modernista de Sant Pau in Barcelona (Spain), from September 7th to 10th, 2026.

Thus, the MHA 2026, a biennial event, serves as a leading platform for presenting and discussing the most recent advances in mucosal health research across a wide range of farmed aquatic species. By fostering dialogue and collaboration, MHA2026 aims to open up new directions for research and reinforce the current scientific knowledge on the role of mucosal health in advancing sustainable aquaculture practices.

MHA2026 will bring together an international scientific community, from early career researchers to leading experts, along with representatives from the aquaculture industry. The symposium promotes knowledge exchange and collaboration, bridging fundamental research with practical applications that strengthen aquaculture resilience and sustainability.

Would you like to join us and share with the scientific community your advances and research on mucosal health? Do not miss the opportunity to visit one of the most beautiful Mediterranean cities and be part of the MHA2006. We look forward to seeing you in Barcelona.

The MHA2026 Organization Committee