Ports play a central economic, social, and geopolitical role, particularly through international trade. In light of growing environmental concerns, they are emerging as key elements in decarbonisation and pollution control policies. Ports are also home to unique marine ecosystems that are relatively unknown. This book explores the characteristics of marine habitats in ports, the ecological roles of ships, and the specific ecological and evolutionary dynamics of marine communities in ports. Particular attention is paid to non-native species, introduced by maritime activities, that are characteristic of these environments. The authors examine practical solutions to minimize ports’ impact on natural marine ecosystems, such as developing appropriate observation tools, ecological engineering, and leveraging port governance and user involvement. This book is aimed at students, marine and environmental science researchers, port management stakeholders, and curious readers. It offers a unique exploration of marine habitats in ports. It contributes to the emerging field of urban marine ecology, a discipline that draws on a broader vision of ecology to study the complex interactions between the dynamics of natural systems and those of human societies.

This book is included in DOAB.