Water ballast testing is the process of analysing water samples from ballast tanks in ships to ensure compliance with environmental regulations and to prevent the spread of invasive species. Ballast water is essential for maintaining the stability and safety of ships during voyages, but it can also contain organisms such as bacteria, viruses, and aquatic plants and animals that can be harmful to marine ecosystems when released in a different location. Water ballast testing helps to identify the presence of such organisms and to determine the effectiveness of ballast water management systems. It is an important part of environmental protection and compliance in the maritime industry.