Abstract: The method is for treating a marine object. A composition is provided that has an organic substance. The composition is applied to the marine object. The composition has a first layer and a second layer. A first organic substance on the first layer attracts bacteria. The bacteria consume the first organic substance and during this process use oxygen. The bacteria thus reduce an oxygen level in a boundary layer adjacent to a surface of the marine object. The first layer of the composition erodes to expose the second layer. The bacteria consume a second organic substance of the second layer.

Abstract: A method for eliminating alien species and undesirable organisms from ballast water of a marine vessel. Ballast water (204) is injected into a container (202). An organic substance is added to the ballast water. Heterotrophic organisms (219) in the ballast water reproduce and consume the organic substance (218). The heterotrophic organisms substantially reduce the oxygen level in the ballast water compared to the oxygen level of untreated ballast water. The alien species and undesirable organisms die due to lack of oxygen.