Addressing Invasive Species Threats at the Port of Valencia: A Digital Solution for Ballast Water Management

The introduction of non-indigenous species (NIS) into marine ecosystems represents a significant challenge for biodiversity conservation, economic stability, and public health. The Mediterranean Sea, known for its rich marine diversity, has become one of the most affected regions globally, with over 1,000 alien species recorded (Ulman et al., 2017). These species, once introduced, can alternative ecosystems, outcompete local fauna, and cause substantial disruptions to fisheries, aquaculture, and tourism industries.