The introduction of non-native species into new environments by ships has been identified as a major threat to the world’s oceans. These species arrive outside their original habitat due to situations where there is an exchange of people or goods between countries or continents, for example, through maritime transport.
Damage to the Environment is Often Irreversible
Non-native species are species that are introduced outside their natural habitat and can survive and reproduce there. In many cases, non-native species are harmless to the local ecosystem. However, in some cases, non-native species become ‘invasive’ species and have a long-lasting and enormous impact on the region. These non-native species cause enormous damage to biodiversity and the Earth’s natural resources.
Direct and indirect effects are becoming increasingly serious, and damage to the environment is often irreversible. A multitude of marine species, carried in ballast water of ships or on ship hulls, can survive and multiply into pest proportions. Shipping thus contributes greatly to this.
Prevent Fouling on the Ship’s Hull
To counteract this spread of invasive species, several measures have already been taken. For example, in some countries it is already forbidden to moor if you come from another continent. But one of the cores of the problem is of course the fouling on the hull. The Ultrasonic Anti-Fouling system is a preventive system that prevents fouling on (among other things) hulls of boats. In addition to the fact that anti-fouling has positive effects for ships themselves (such as fuel savings), it also helps to prevent the spread of invasive species.
Ultrasonic Anti-Fouling System
The Ultrasonic Anti-Fouling System consists of a control box and one or more transducers. The transducers are glued to the inside of the ship (e.g. hull). They emit an ultrasonic signal and use the hull as a soundboard. This high-frequency signal will kill the single-celled bacteria (algae) and thus prevents further fouling on the ship. These single-celled bacteria are the breeding ground for other organisms.
Ultrasonic Anti-Fouling System Helps
Lamers System Care would like to discuss with you how our Ultrasonic Anti-Fouling system can help you to counteract this fouling and spread of invasive species. More information? Feel free to contact us via info@LSCare.nl.
