Get all your news in one place.
100's of premium titles.
One app.
Start reading
The Independent UK
The Independent UK
Science
Vishwam Sankaran

Hormuz Strait closure could fuel unprecedented spread of invasive species in Gulf region, scientists warn

Thousands of stranded vessels in the Persian Gulf following the closure of the Strait of Hormuz could unintentionally trigger a massive spread of marine invasive species like mussels and barnacles in the region, a new study warns.

When ships are anchored at sea for prolonged periods, their hulls tend to accumulate dense communities of marine organisms, including algae, barnacles, mussels, and other invertebrates.

Sign up to read this article
Read news from 100's of titles, curated specifically for you.
Already a member? Sign in here
Related Stories
Top stories on inkl right now
One subscription that gives you access to news from hundreds of sites
Already a member? Sign in here
Our Picks
Fourteen days free
Download the app
One app. One membership.
100+ trusted global sources.