Strait of Hormuz Ship Bottleneck Threatens Global Marine Biodiversity

Thousands of vessels stranded in the Strait of Hormuz due to the US-Iran war could introduce an unprecedented wave of invasive species, parasites, and pathogens into the region and beyond. Marine scientists warn that these organisms, which have been accumulating on ship hulls for months, could spread to global ports when commerce resumes, posing a significant threat to marine ecosystems and biodiversity. The Persian Gulf's warm waters may further exacerbate the situation, making invasive species more resistant and efficient. International cooperation is urged to monitor and mitigate ship biofouling and enhance port prevention protocols.