Reef rehabilitation
|
Special reef tilesInstead of the conventional approach of using bare structures on the seabed to allow marine organisms to settle, we have designed special reef tiles. In our hatchery, we allow larvae of oysters, mussels, tubeworms or corals, or a combination of reef-building species, to grow on the reef tiles. We then sow the 'living', biodegradable tiles on a large scale in the sea - as many as 80,000 reef tiles per hectare - after which natural reefs form. The natural flow on the sea floor ensures that growth zones are formed, from which the reef can continue to develop. By kick-starting nature in this way, we can restore reefs on a large scale with real impact.Click on the infographic to see how it works: |
Biogenic reefs as biodiversity hotspotsReefs play a key role in the marine environment and attract many other species. The Dutch government recognises the importance of restoring biogenic reefs in the North Sea, particularly oyster beds. The 'De Rijke Noordzee' programme explores the possibility of using wind farms at sea for this purpose, but methods for large-scale reef restoration are lacking. With 'Sowing hectares of reef', Blue Linked responds to this need. With the support of De Rijke Noordzee, we investigate possibilities to apply this concept in the project 'Lab test reef tiles'. In doing so, we hope to contribute to the return of reefs as hotspots of biodiversity. |
Mobile laboratory for coral reef restorationFor the rehabilitation of coral reefs through sexual reproduction, Blue Linked has developed a mobile laboratory, also using self-designed reef tiles. The mobile laboratory, built in a sea container, can be placed anywhere to grow corals. In an accompanying manual, we brought together the knowledge and skills involved in the technique. |
![]() |
![]() |