Scienceenvironment
Copper-Resistant Bacteria Complicate Ship Hull Maintenance
Marine bacteria have evolved to bypass traditional copper-based coatings applied to ship hulls to prevent the accumulation of barnacles, algae, and other marine organisms. This phenomenon, known as biofouling, poses a growing challenge for maritime transport and vessel maintenance. The emergence of copper-resistant bacterial strains necessitates the development of innovative and alternative methods for managing biofouling on ship hulls to maintain fuel efficiency and protect marine ecosystems.