Testing of artificial reefs with substrates covered with chemical fiber fabric for the restoration of Gelidium beds on the shore of Miyakejima Island

Abstract

  We designed artificial reefs installed with substrates (CCF bolts) covered with chemical fiber fabric for the restoration of Gelidium beds. We deployed experimental blocks onto the sea bottom at Ohashi on the eastern shore of Miyakejima Island where G. elegans beds had been devastated by the volcanic eruption. The Standing crop of G. elegans on the artificial reefs was significantly greater than that on the natural bedrocks, however, it was below the level measured before the volcanic eruption. On the other hand, G. elegans adhered quickly to the CFF bolts fixed on the artificial reefs, and the standing crop of G. elegans on the bolts was maintained at the level measured before the volcanic eruption after more than three years since the deployment.