Artificial reef observations from a manned submersible off southeast Florida

E.A. Shinn; R.I. Wicklund

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USGS · 70015497

Artificial reef observations from a manned submersible off southeast Florida

E.A. Shinn·R.I. Wicklund

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Abstract

Examination of 16 artificial reef structures in depths ranging from 30-120m indicated that the highest numbers of fish are found around reefs in water shallower than 46m. Fewer fish, especially those with tropical coral reef affinities, <46m was probably caused by a thermocline. Algae and reef community encrusters, abundant on shallower structures, were absent below 46m. Structures that penetrated above the thermocline, such as upright oil rigs and a hopper barge, were also effective reefs. The open structure and high profile of the rigs enhance their use as artificial reefs by providing a range of well-aerated habitats. Greatest diversity and numbers of fish were observed at the Miami sewer outfall. -from Authors

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E.A. Shinn, R.I. Wicklund. 1989. Artificial reef observations from a manned submersible off southeast Florida. https://pubs.usgs.gov/publication/70015497

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