Coral recruitment onto an experimental pulverised fuel ash–concrete artificial reef

Published source details Lam K.K.Y. (2003) Coral recruitment onto an experimental pulverised fuel ash–concrete artificial reef. Marine Pollution Bulletin, 46, 642-653.
Share Tweet Email

Actions

This study is summarised as evidence for the following.

	Action	Category
	Use structures made from unnatural materials to restore / repair / create habitat for corals to encourage natural coral settlement Action Link

Use structures made from unnatural materials to restore / repair / create habitat for corals to encourage natural coral settlement

A replicated study in 1993–1995 at an artificial reef in Hoi Ha Wan, Hong Kong (Lam 2003) found that after pulverised fly-ash/cement blocks were used to create habitat, the number of stony coral recruits settling onto the blocks varied according to time immersed, block orientation, composition and species. A total of 387 Oulastrea crispata were recorded during the 24-month monitoring period (0–65/m²). More recruits settled on the top and reef-facing sides of the block compared to the sea-facing or bottom sides (data not reported). There was no difference in Oulastrea crispata recruitment on blocks comprising different pulverised fly-ash:cement mixes. Thirty Culicia japonica recruits were recorded during the monitoring period, with the density fluctuating (range 0–6/m²) and peaking after 24 months. More recruits were recorded on the reef-facing, top and bottom sides compared to the sea-facing (data not reported). More Culicia japonica settled on blocks comprising 3:1 pulverised fly-ash:cement mix (numbers not reported). In December 1993, a total of 176 smooth-sided cube blocks (0.15 m³) were randomly placed on top of an existing artificial reef 7 m deep. Blocks comprised different ratios of pulverised fly-ash:cement (0:1, 1:3, 1:1, 3:1). Coral recruits were counted approximately every three months for 24 months.

(Summarised by: Ann Thornton)