Strait of Hormuz biofouling biosecurity threat

The closure of the Strait of Hormuz since February has led to over 1,500 commercial vessels being laid up in the Persian Gulf. Research by scientists from Lincoln University, United States — Smithsonian Institution, Cawthron Institute, and University of Maryland Center for Environmental Science warns that these idle vessels have accumulated marine biofouling species on their hulls. As the strait reopens, these ships may spread invasive species to ports they visit, potentially causing an international biosecurity 'super-spreader' event. Such incursions could harm native ecosystems, wild fisheries, aquaculture stocks, and coastal industries, leading to significant environmental damage and economic losses. New Zealand and Australia, with strong biosecurity frameworks, are likely to receive affected vessels within a year. The researchers recommend inspections, in-water cleaning, route forecasting, early detection, and rapid response to mitigate the risk.