A recent study warns that ships stuck in the Gulf region due to the closure of the Strait of Hormuz could lead to a significant spread of organisms, potentially causing long-lasting environmental harm. The paper, released last week in the journal Biological Invasions, highlights the threat posed by algae, barnacles, tunicates, and other species accumulating on the stationary vessels in the Persian Gulf and the Gulf of Oman.
Lead author Mario Tamburri from the University of Maryland Center for Environmental Science emphasized the alarming biosecurity risk presented by the situation. The study estimates that approximately 1,500 ships are currently stranded in the Persian Gulf, with additional vessels stuck in the Gulf of Oman due to the ongoing closure of the strait amid the U.S.-Iran conflict.
The accumulation of organisms, known as biofouling, on the ships’ hulls and surfaces could facilitate the spread of invasive species to various ports worldwide if not properly managed. The prolonged inactivity of the vessels, coupled with the warm waters and conducive breeding conditions, heightens the likelihood of a “super-spreader” event.
Tamburri and his colleagues describe the scenario as a “worst-case situation,” as ships are remaining idle for extended periods far beyond the norm. The researchers noted that hull coatings meant to prevent biofouling lose effectiveness when ships are inactive, further exacerbating the risk.
The study emphasizes that cleaning the vessels before they resume travel would be a challenging task, given the sheer number of ships involved and the limited capacity of in-water cleaning services. The potential consequences of the spread of invasive species via biofouling have garnered less attention compared to other pathways like ballast water transfer.
Experts warn that once established, invasive species can out-compete native organisms and disrupt ecosystems. Efforts to mitigate the risks associated with biofouling are underway, with updated guidelines from the International Maritime Organization addressing the issue. However, mandatory regulations in this area are still in development.
The implications of the current situation in the Gulf region extend beyond immediate concerns, with the potential for ecological invasions to ripple out globally. The study underscores the interconnectedness of geopolitical events and ecological impacts, emphasizing the need for proactive measures to address the risks posed by biofouling and invasive species spread.