Optimizing aquaculture for economically significant species like mangrove crabs (Scylla spp.) is crucial for sustainable seafood production. While these crustaceans are vital to the aquaculture industry, encompassing species such as *S. olivacea*, *S. paramamosain*, *S. tranquebarica*, and *S. serrata*, current hatchery operations often face challenges leading to an overreliance on wild-caught seedstock. This dependence not only exerts pressure on natural populations but also underscores the imperative for advancing hatchery management techniques. By systematically analyzing existing research through meta-analysis, we can identify key environmental parameters that significantly influence larval survival, thereby paving the way for more efficient and reliable hatchery protocols.
Our recent meta-analysis, adhering to PRISMA guidelines, investigated the impact of water temperature and salinity on the survival rates of larvae across four *Scylla* species. This rigorous approach, drawing data from extensive literature searches across major scientific databases, allowed us to synthesize empirical findings and identify optimal rearing conditions. The results indicate that while temperature plays a role, salinity emerges as a more influential factor in larval survival. Specifically, our validated findings suggest distinct temperature and salinity ranges for each species: 30 °C and 30 ppt for *S. olivacea*; 28–30 °C and 28–31 ppt for *S. paramamosain*; 30.5 °C and 31 ppt for *S. tranquebarica*; and 29 °C and 28–33 ppt for *S. serrata*. These precise, measurable parameters provide a foundational blueprint for enhancing hatchery success.
While the study provides valuable insights, it is important to acknowledge the observed high confidence intervals and heterogeneity across species. These variations, likely stemming from the limited number of comprehensive studies and differences in experimental designs and sample sizes, highlight an ongoing need for further empirical research. Nevertheless, the established ranges represent a significant advancement, offering a clear path toward optimizing larval rearing protocols. By implementing these data-driven recommendations, the aquaculture industry can move towards increased hatchery production, reduce the reliance on wild seedstock, and contribute to more sustainable management of valuable marine resources. This integration of validated scientific findings into practical aquaculture management exemplifies our commitment to fostering informed ocean stewardship.