Biochemical Control of Marine Fouling
Abstract
Although marine fouling is initiated, in several cases, by the accretion of a thin molecular and microbial layer (microfouling), it is the attachment of larger organisms (macrofouling) that is responsible for the principal increase in drag on vessel hulls, increase in fuel consumption, stress and deterioration of piers, pilings and cassions, and the reduced efficiency of heat-exchangers in the marine environment. Virtually all marine organisms that contribute to macrofouling are recruited to immersed surfaces as larvae (or propagules) setting from the plankton. The objectives of research supported by this contract have been: (1) to identify and characterize the biochemical signals, receptors, and their mechanisms of action, that control the settlement, metamorphosis, and recruitment of larvae of marine invertebrates onto surfaces, and thus control marine fouling; and (2) based on these results, to identify new strategies for countermeasures that are specific, non-toxic, and environmentally safe. Keywords: Fouling organisms; Antifouling.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jan 14, 1988
- Accession Number
- ADA203338
Entities
People
- Daniel E Morse
Organizations
- University of California, Santa Barbara