<
https://theconversation.com/ships-stuck-in-the-strait-of-hormuz-region-may-be-biosecurity-risks-when-they-leave-what-can-we-do-288551>
"The economic ramifications of the closure of the Strait of Hormuz are much
discussed. But so far, the risk of ecological damage following a long blockade
of ships has been overlooked.
Our recent research shows the more than 1,500 commercial vessels that have been
laid up in the Persian/Arabian Gulf since February pose a significant
environmental threat because they have been accumulating marine biofouling
species on their hulls.
As the strait reopens, these ships may spread these organisms to ports they
visit, potentially causing an international biosecurity “super-spreader” event.
Such incursions of alien marine plants, animals, parasites and diseases affect
native ecosystems and wild fisheries as well as aquaculture stocks and coastal
industries. They can lead to significant environmental damage and economic
losses.
But the closure of the Strait of Hormuz is not the first time shipping
disruptions have resulted in significant biofouling on idle vessels."
Cheers,
*** Xanni ***
--
mailto:xanni@xanadu.net Andrew Pam
http://xanadu.com.au/ Chief Scientist, Xanadu
https://glasswings.com.au/ Partner, Glass Wings
https://sericyb.com.au/ Manager, Serious Cybernetics
