Application of Molecular Genetic Methods for Detection of Harmful Organisms in Ship's Ballast Water

Non-native species are spread around the globe by various means, including aquaculture and ship vectors, hull fouling and ballast water. The introduction of nonindigenous species may cause a serious harm to ecosystems, economy and human health. The ballast water is a primary source for the introduction of harmful species and pathogens, therefore, the detection of such organisms could prevent unwanted impacts. The use of molecular methods may provide focused detection with high throughput of samples, in a time and cost effective manner. A major advancement in the study of ballast water microorganisms will be to expedite sample analysis using a sensitive oligonucleotide hybridization technique, the technology of DNA microarrays. Microarray technology would be powerful in detecting microbial pollution within any coastal or inland waters used for transport, recreation or drinking.