How to develop artificial coral reefs through the construction and maintenance of artificial rocks

Coral reefs productive ecosystems which are the habitats for regeneration of many marine fauna and flora species. The high production of coral reef ecosystems has made them a suitable place for fishermen catches and fisheries organizations. Increasing population growth, human activities, including uncontrolled exploitation of edible and non-edible or decorative sources of coral reefs, as well as global warming, which is the widespread reflection of human activities, has reduced coral reefs as quickly as possible. According to these conditions, many societies around the world have been considered the creation of artificial reefs for settlement of many marine organisms, in the recent years. The existence of artificial reefs or rock formations has created a new ecosystem over time that according to its characteristics, is comparable to natural coral reefs. This innovation was implemented in year 2002, with financial support of the United Nations GEF/SGP, the Qeshm Free Zone Department of Environment and the village council of Salakh in the Qeshm Island. All stages of the project were carried out with the help of Salakh’s people from the beginning and construction of different parts of the artificial structures to the placement on the seabed. Artificial reefs have greatly positive effects on biodiversity, the beauty of sea bed, suitable sites for the settlement and growth of marine animals, and place providing for the study of coral reef-like ecosystems. In this study, the steps of construction and placement of artificial rock beds in the village of Salakh, Qeshm has been explained.