Thermal treatment as a method to control transfers of invasive biofouling species via vessel sea chests

► Lab studies conducted to determine the thermal tolerance of common sea chest fouling taxa. ► Complete mortality achieved across all thermal treatments for vast majority of taxa. ► Field studies in a replica sea chest environment support laboratory findings. ► Provides baseline data for thermal treatment parameters to control sea chest fouling. ► Highlights engineering obstacles to be overcome to make this treatment method viable.