Artificial reefs

Artificial reefs are natural or manmade external objects or stable structures placed in the sea to provide an artificial fish habitat and thereby to attract, aggregate and regenerate fishery resources. Artificial reefs are used worldwide to increase the productivity and fisheries potential of relatively barren or unproductive areas. Artificial reefs are also used as effective fish attracting devices during certain times of the year. Reefs when properly located and structured not only concentrate fishes but also increase the biological productivity of the area. Reefs also often serve as spawning and nursery areas for fishes and shellfishe