Can Artificial Reefs Save Our Oceans? Ocean Sanctuaries Explores Underwater Conservation Solutions

March 3, 2025 — With global marine ecosystems under increasing pressure from climate change, habitat destruction, and pollution, scientists and conservationists are turning to artificial reefs as a potential solution to restore marine biodiversity. Ocean Sanctuaries, a leading nonprofit dedicated to marine citizen science and conservation, is investigating the impact of artificial reefs and how they may serve as a lifeline for struggling ocean habitats.

Artificial reefs—structures placed on the ocean floor to mimic natural reefs—have been used for decades as a tool to encourage marine life settlement and improve biodiversity. While they have gained popularity, their long-term effectiveness and ecological impacts remain subjects of ongoing research. Ocean Sanctuaries, through its dedicated network of volunteer citizen scientists, is playing a key role in documenting how these reefs support marine ecosystems and how they can be optimized for conservation.

The Growing Crisis of Coral Reef Decline

Natural coral reefs are among the most biodiverse ecosystems on Earth, providing shelter, breeding grounds, and food for nearly a quarter of all marine species. However, coral reefs worldwide are disappearing at an alarming rate due to rising ocean temperatures, pollution, and destructive fishing practices. According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), approximately 50 percent of the world's coral reefs have already been lost, and scientists warn that without intervention, up to 90 percent could be severely degraded by 2050.

As natural reefs decline, marine species are left with fewer habitats, leading to disruptions in the food chain and the loss of vital ecosystem services. Artificial reefs offer a potential alternative, providing much-needed habitat for fish, invertebrates, and corals while also serving as protective structures to prevent coastal erosion.

What Are Artificial Reefs and How Do They Work?

Artificial reefs can take many forms, from sunken ships and concrete structures to purpose-built reef modules designed to support marine life. When strategically placed, these structures encourage the settlement of coral larvae, attract fish populations, and promote the development of a balanced marine ecosystem. Some artificial reefs are made from repurposed materials, such as decommissioned military vessels or concrete blocks, while others are specifically engineered with materials designed to foster coral growth and minimize environmental impact.

One of the most well-known artificial reef projects is the sinking of the HMCS Yukon, a 366-foot decommissioned Canadian warship off the coast of San Diego, California. The ship was intentionally sunk in 2000 to create an artificial reef and has since become home to a wide variety of marine species. Ocean Sanctuaries has been actively involved in monitoring the Yukon reef, using citizen science data to assess its effectiveness as a marine habitat.

Ocean Sanctuaries' Role in Artificial Reef Research

Ocean Sanctuaries is at the forefront of community-driven research on artificial reefs, leveraging the power of citizen scientists to collect vital data on marine life populations, biodiversity, and habitat changes. Through collaborations with divers, marine biologists, and conservation organizations, Ocean Sanctuaries is conducting long-term studies to determine how artificial reefs contribute to marine conservation and whether they can effectively replace lost natural reefs.

One of the primary research initiatives focuses on species diversity and abundance on artificial reefs compared to nearby natural reefs. Volunteer divers equipped with underwater cameras document fish populations, coral growth, and invertebrate life on artificial reef structures. These observations are then uploaded to iNaturalist, a global biodiversity platform that helps scientists track changes in marine ecosystems over time.

Additionally, Ocean Sanctuaries is analyzing how different types of artificial reef materials impact marine colonization. Some materials, such as limestone and specially designed reef modules, have been shown to promote coral settlement more effectively than others. By studying these interactions, Ocean Sanctuaries hopes to contribute valuable insights into the design and placement of future artificial reefs.

The Benefits and Challenges of Artificial Reefs

Artificial reefs offer several advantages for marine conservation, fisheries management, and eco-tourism. One of the most significant benefits is habitat restoration, providing shelter for fish, mollusks, and coral polyps that might otherwise struggle to find suitable environments. Artificial reefs can also help relieve pressure on overfished natural reefs by creating alternative fishing grounds, allowing depleted ecosystems a chance to recover.

For local economies, artificial reefs can boost dive tourism by attracting recreational divers interested in exploring these underwater structures. Areas with established artificial reefs often see increased revenue from diving-related tourism, benefiting coastal communities that rely on ocean-based industries.

However, artificial reefs are not without challenges. Improperly placed or poorly designed reefs can have unintended consequences, such as altering water flow patterns or introducing pollutants into the ocean. Some artificial reefs have also become dumping grounds for unwanted materials, leading to environmental concerns. To maximize their benefits, artificial reefs must be carefully planned, monitored, and managed to ensure they support marine life without causing harm.

The Future of Artificial Reefs in Ocean Conservation

As the global climate crisis intensifies, artificial reefs are likely to play an increasingly important role in ocean conservation. Scientists and conservation groups, including Ocean Sanctuaries, are working to refine artificial reef designs and develop best practices for their implementation. New advancements, such as 3D-printed reef structures and bio-friendly materials, offer promising possibilities for creating artificial reefs that more closely mimic natural coral formations.

One emerging approach is the use of mineral accretion technology, which involves passing a low-voltage electric current through submerged metal structures. This process promotes the deposition of calcium carbonate, the same material found in natural coral skeletons, encouraging rapid coral growth. Some studies have shown that mineral accretion reefs can accelerate coral recovery and improve reef resilience in areas affected by bleaching events.

Additionally, conservationists are exploring ways to combine artificial reef projects with marine protected areas (MPAs) to create safe havens for marine life. By integrating artificial reefs into existing MPAs, scientists can enhance habitat restoration efforts while ensuring these structures are not negatively impacted by human activities such as fishing or coastal development.

How the Public Can Get Involved

Ocean Sanctuaries believes that marine conservation is most effective when communities are actively engaged. Through citizen science programs, volunteer divers, snorkelers, and beachgoers can contribute valuable data that helps researchers assess the health of artificial reefs and marine ecosystems.

Those interested in participating can join ongoing monitoring projects, submit observations through biodiversity platforms like iNaturalist, or support conservation efforts by advocating for policies that promote responsible artificial reef development. Even non-divers can contribute by raising awareness about the importance of marine conservation and supporting organizations dedicated to protecting ocean habitats.

Ocean Sanctuaries is also working to expand its education and outreach efforts, offering online courses and workshops that teach individuals how to document marine species, contribute to citizen science projects, and become advocates for ocean conservation. By empowering people with knowledge and tools, Ocean Sanctuaries aims to build a global community dedicated to safeguarding the future of marine life.

Conclusion

Artificial reefs represent a compelling and innovative approach to marine conservation, offering hope for the restoration of ocean ecosystems facing unprecedented threats. While they are not a complete substitute for natural reefs, when carefully designed and managed, artificial reefs have the potential to provide critical habitats, support marine biodiversity, and promote sustainable ocean use.

Ocean Sanctuaries remains committed to advancing research on artificial reefs, leveraging the power of citizen science to collect meaningful data and drive informed conservation decisions. As ocean advocates, researchers, and policymakers work together, artificial reefs may become a key tool in preserving the beauty and diversity of our oceans for generations to come.

For more information on Ocean Sanctuaries' work and how to get involved, visit:

Media Contact:

Ocean Sanctuaries

Barbara Lloyd

Phone: +1.858.633.7305

Email: [email protected]

Website: www.oceansanctuaries.org