Boosting Marine Life and Conservation Effort

by Fahmi, AMD-B’s 2024 Divemaster Internship

Artificial reefs are man-made structures that help restore marine ecosystems. They provide places for corals to grow, attract fish, and support overall marine biodiversity. By mimicking natural reef environments, these structures help restore areas where coral reefs are damaged or missing.

Artificial-Reefs

How Artificial Reef Work

Corals need the right space to grow—they require enough sunlight, suitable temperatures, and the proper minerals to thrive. Naturally, corals will spread to open spaces, but this process takes a long time and relies on perfect conditions.

Coral reproduction happens in two main ways: sexually and asexually. In sexual reproduction, fertilized coral eggs (or larvae) drift and settle in open spaces, but they need ideal conditions—plenty of sunlight and no obstructions—for this to happen. Asexual reproduction occurs through fragmentation, where pieces of coral break off and grow independently. This is where artificial reefs come into play.

By planting coral fragments on artificial structures, we give corals a “jump-start” in their growth, reducing their vulnerability in the early stages. The rough surfaces of artificial reefs also provide excellent places for sexually reproduced corals to attach and grow, offering a stable environment for both types of coral reproduction. This helps speed up the recovery process and supports the overall health of the reef ecosystem.

Artificial-Reef-in-Amed

What Happens After Installation

The impact of artificial reefs can be seen quickly. Fish are often attracted to the new structures within hours, swimming around and using the spaces for shelter. After a few weeks, you’ll notice algae, sponges, coralline algae, and even anemones starting to grow on the surfaces. Fish may also begin to protect the area as their territory.

Over time, the artificial reef becomes more complex, offering shelter, feeding grounds, and even breeding spaces for different species. This encourages a diverse range of marine life to thrive, making artificial reefs an important part of marine conservation efforts.

King-Reef-Artificial-with-Corals

Artificial Reef in Bali

Artificial reefs in Bali are planned and developed by various groups, including NGOs, the government, local villages, and businesses. These structures come in all shapes and sizes, with some specifically designed to support coral restoration, while others serve as tourist attractions.

For example, in Amed, you’ll find pyramid-shaped artificial reefs alongside unique designs like the “Post Office” and “Temple.” Padangbai features hexagonal structures, small boats, and cube-like formations that enhance marine habitats.

In Tulamben, the USAT Liberty Shipwreck, though not intentionally planned as an artificial reef, has transformed into a thriving ecosystem, attracting divers from around the world. In Nusa Penida, a technique known as the “rope method” involves hanging corals on ropes, providing protection from predators and promoting faster growth.

Artificial-Reef-at-Nusa-Penida