Biologists are sounding the alarm over the potential for an ecological crisis stemming from ships trapped in the Strait of Hormuz. "The unprecedented scale and duration of this spring and summer mass lay-up of large commercial ships has created ideal conditions for a marine invasive species 'super-spreader' event," the report reads. Commercial vessels typically avoid spending more than one to three days at any port to limit the growth of biofouling organisms. Comparatively, ships trapped in the strait have remained idle for at least 40 times longer than the average stay, exposing them to ideal conditions for invasive species to colonize their hulls and mature before being carried to vulnerable ecosystems. The report urges shipping companies and regulators to treat vessels leaving the Strait of Hormuz as high-risk for biofouling, and recommends inspections and hull cleaning before ships resume international voyages.