biofouling

American  

[bahy-oh-fou-ling] / ˈbaɪ oʊˌfaʊ lɪŋ /

noun

1. the gradual accumulation of organisms such as algae, bacteria, barnacles, and protozoa on underwater equipment, pipes, and surfaces, corroding and impairing structures and systems.

---

biofouling Scientific  

/ bī′ō-fou′lĭng /

1. The impairment or degradation of underwater surfaces or equipment as a result of the growth of living organisms. Organisms such as bacteria, protozoans, algae, and crustaceans can accumulate in large numbers on surfaces like pipes, tanks, and ships' hulls, resulting in corrosion, clogging, contamination, or a decrease in the efficiency of moving parts.

---

Other Word Forms

• biofouler noun

Example Sentences

Tests showed that the W-DEG continued to function under a wide range of temperatures and salt levels, and even when exposed to natural lake water containing biofouling.

From Science Daily • Nov. 15, 2025

Using a fibrous anchor called a byssus, Dreissenid mussels contribute to biofouling on surfaces and obstruct intake structures in power stations and water treatment plants.

From Science Daily • Dec. 8, 2023

Along with biofouling, it's a key way marine species reach new habitats.

From Salon • Feb. 14, 2022

Creatures, including mussels, barnacles, crabs and algae, are of particular concern, because they attach themselves to hulls, in a process termed "biofouling".

From BBC • Jan. 10, 2022

"We will subject all these sensors to all the great wonderful stuff in the : diurnal changes in pH, temperature and salinity, and all the biofouling that happens," Bunje says.

From Scientific American • Sep. 9, 2013