Modern marine biotechnology has developed rapidly since the 1980s. Notwithstanding, only in recent years, marine biotechnology has turned out to be an appealing field of application of modern fundamental and applied science in an attempt to better understand, and as a derivative, to protect and to properly manage the natural resources and the environment, as the sea provides a multifactorial platform able to contribute to sustain human life for future generations. We are fully aware that oceans comprise the biggest part of the biosphere and contain the most ancient and diverse forms of life. It is then unreasonable not to try to submerge in this exiting and yet undiscovered new world. Electronic Journal of Biotechnology, as a front runner instrument socializing validated scientific information, decided to submerge itself in this new world dedicating this special issue to this relevant area of research. Marine biotechnology has already provided exciting achievements in biochemistry, genetics, genomics, bioenergy, and other related fields, being particularly noticeable its contribution to enrich aquaculture management as a prelude to ocean farming. We are convinced that the next millennium, the world’s aquatic systems will be the new frontier for intensive biological investigation, resource development and management, and industrial application To facilitate the development and expansion of this important frontier, a forum is needed for scientists to gather and exchange scientific information and ideas. Additionally to these thoughts, the inspiration for this special issue has grown from the leading role Chile has had in the last decade in the area of salmon production and the continuous challenges the sector has had to face and that had seriously threatened its sustainability. Since this situation is unfortunately shared by aquaculture producers in other latitudes as well as it is also involving sectors beyond salmon production in aquaculture, it is our hope that this issue will contribute toward the advancement of marine biotechnology and that new collaborations and interactions among interested scientist will be initiated as a result. Sergio Marshall |