Mitigating biofouling in hydraulic infrastructure: a review of Limnoperna fortunei (Dunker, 1857) control technologies

Limnoperna fortunei (Dunker, 1857 in GBIF Secretariat (2023)), an invasive species known for its high filtration rate, dense populations, and rapid dispersion, poses a significant threat to freshwater ecosystems in various regions worldwide. In hydraulic infrastructure, L. fortunei biofouling reduces operational efficiency, accelerates infrastructure degradation, shortens equipment lifespan, and poses safety risks and water contamination threats, incurring significant economic costs. Consequently, effective control measures for L. fortunei are urgently needed. Although substantial progress has been made in understanding and managing L. fortunei, with various strategies proposed-such as physical removal, chemical eradication, and biological control - few have been shown to provide long-term, widely applicable solutions in hydraulic engineering. This paper reviews the mechanisms of fouling by L. fortunei and the current prevention strategies, offering a scientific basis and guidance for developing more effective prevention and control technologies.