AQUABIOTECH GROUP ABT INNOVIA > MARINE BIOLOGICAL FOULING RESEARCH Marine biological fouling, also termed as biofouling, is commonly defined as the undesirable accumulaon of microorganisms, animals and plants on arficial surfaces immersed in seawater. Both the marime and aquaculture industries are incurring large costs due to the impact of biofouling. Aquaculture Industry In the aquaculture industry, biofouling accelerates corrosion and bio-deterioraon problems, restricts waterflow through the cages, increases disease risks and causes deformaon of cages and structures. In addion, the need for increased maintenance of equipment to avoid physical damage can increase the chances of system failure and economic lose. ABT Innovia is an independent aquac, aquaculture, biotechnology research facility that forms part of the AquaBioTech Group. The AquaBioTech Group is an internaonal consulng company strategically located in the centre of the Mediterranean on the island of Malta, although operang globally with clients and projects in over fiſty-five countries. The AquaBioTech Group undertakes a variety of aquaculture, fisheries, marine surveying, aquarium and aquac environmental projects through its regional offices and partners throughout the world. The Yachng and Marime Industries In the case of ships and other vessels, some of the negave effects caused by biological selements included: loss of maneuverability and high friconal resistance. This increased roughness means higher fuel consumpon. The increase in fuel consumpon can be up to 40%, and the overall costs for a whole voyage may go up by as much as 77%. Environmental impact An addional problem of biofouling is the potenal introducon of invasive species into ecosystems. Some invasive species can breed and spread quickly, consequently taking over an area, by compeng nave species. Biofouling Research www.abtinnovia.com Central Complex, Naggar Street, Targa Gap, Mosta MST 1761, Malta G.C. | T +356 2258 4100 | E [email protected]