International. Researchers at the Hong Kong University of Science and Technology (HKUST) have uncovered a centuries-old mystery in benthic marine organisms, which not only leads to the search for a non-toxic anti-fouling coating that could help the shipping industry save fuel, but also opens the gateway for future studies that could reallocate the marine ecosystem.
For years, scientists focused on how environmental changes affect marine benthos, but most have overlooked biofilm's bridging role for the environment and benthic life. Professor Qian's pioneering study has found that when looking for a place of settlement, the larvae of benthic marine life respond largely to chemical signals discharged by the biofilm, rather than directly to the environment, so by manipulating these chemical signals, such as coral, abalones and shells, in less polluted areas to ensure their healthy growth and save endangered species, putting the marine ecosystem back into balance.
"Our results provide important background for the sustainable development of marine resources," Professor Qian said. "It also points to the possible trend of changes in the marine ecosystem due to global climate changes."
Professor Qian also found a new, non-toxic solution for biofouling with his finding. Biological pollution is a major problem for ships because the accumulation of organisms in hulls not only increases fuel consumption by up to 40%, significantly reducing their speed, but also compromises national security. For years, ship ships and navy troops rely on an antifouling agent to fight hull-attaching organisms, but they are harmful to marine life. So far, Professor Qian has obtained 12 patents for his new antifouling coatings, which are not only proven effective like traditional ones, but are much more environmentally friendly alternatives, as they are developed with natural chemicals from the biofilm.
Source: The Honk Kong University of Science and Technology
