Artificial Reef Evaluation

Beneath the coastal waters of the world lie thousands of artificial reefs. Some are old and retired freighters and ships that once plied the oceans of the world but now serve as habitats for marine life. Others are newer reefs that have been designed and built for specific applications. With the field of aquatic habitat technology continually growi

Structure in the Sea: The Science, Technology and Effects of Purpose-Built Reefs and Related Surfaces provides a review of the history, development, status and emerging trends in research, technology and applications of artificial reef habitats and sea floor structures. The book helps readers understand, utilize and add to the research of modern reef deployment efforts, presenting a guide to equip stakeholders requiring technical foundations and best practices. Topics include materials, designs and construction methods, along with the ecology of these structures, including key aspects of the life history of plants and animals associated with artificial reefs. Rigorous research addressing ecological, economic and engineering questions, coupled with the innovative deployment of structures worldwide by diverse stakeholders, have created a synergy that makes the book a valuable synthesis and analysis for this growing subject. Thus, its broad audience includes marine (coastal and ocean) environmental sciences, including aquatic ecologists, those working in ocean sustainability and conservation, benthic habitat and coral reef restoration practitioners, and more. Presents a new perspective on how we might save natural wonders under threat Provides a representation of reefs, showing the economic and humanitarian value of these natural ecosystems Unlocks potentials for solutions for conservation by including global case studies

Among the most important reasons that artificial reefs have been created are the protection of the seabed with macroalgae, the possibility of improving fishing, and meeting the expectations and demands of tourists. Coastal managers have realized that it is important that artificial reefs are useful to people, especially local communities, and that it is therefore important that they are promoted by government entities for various professional and leisure activity use. Coastal managers must take this into consideration when reefs are designed. They must also define the ecosystem services they promote as well as the main uses for which the reefs are created. Impact of Artificial Reefs on the Environment and Communities presents insights on the connection between artificial reefs and the tourism industry in order to encourage the sharing of experiences and development of new innovative possibilities that create value for society. It presents the experiences, testimonies, and innovations of those who work closely with artificial reefs. Covering topics such as computational fluid dynamics, dive tourism, and Industry 4.0, this book is an essential resource for entrepreneurs, researchers, students and educators of higher education, coastal managers, government officials, leaders in tourism, engineers, and academicians.

While artificial reefs may have much to offer, they remain an anecdote in the greater scheme of fisheries management, primarily due to the lack of data specific to validating their use. Based on papers presented at the 9th Conference on Artificial Reefs and Artificial Habitats (CARAH) and also including original articles written for this reference,