Flux of the Wetted Surface Area on Ships’ Hulls in Major Ports of Korea

Abstract

Biofouling is a significant means for introducing non-indigenous marine species internationally, which can alter habitats and disturb marine ecosystems. This study estimated the flux of ships’ wetted surface area (WSA) to Korea in 2020 to assess the risks of biological invasion via biofouling on ships’ hulls. The annual total WSA flux entering Korea was estimated to be 418.26 km2, with short-stay vessels (<3 weeks) contributing to 99.7% of the total WSA flux. Busan and Ulsan ports were identified as the main sources of high-risk flux, with container ships being a major vector in Busan and tankers in Ulsan. Gwangyang port had the third-highest total WSA flux, with nearly half of the flux driven from coastwise voyages, making it particularly vulnerable to the spread of hull fouling organisms. These findings could help enhance the management and inspection of hull fouling organisms in Korea.