Bivalve Restoration Around the World
The development of artificial structures in urban harbours (sheltered bays and estuaries) can have widespread ecological consequences by enhancing the distribution and spread of non-indigenous species (Airoldi et al. 2015; Dafforn et al. 2015). The practice of combining ecological principles with the planning, design, and modification of marine artificial structures (green engineering) is gaining in popularity, and could help to support native biodiversity and without facilitating non-indigenous species success (Dafforn et al. 2015). Enhancements include, use of natural or ecofriendly materials (wood, shell, rock, reduced pH concrete), addition of structural features (rockpools, crevices, holes, ridges, grooves and textures) and seeding with native habitat-forming species (e.g. algae, bivalves and coral). Green Engineering – Workgroup 2
AIMS:
Run global experiment(s) testing the effects of green engineering techniques for enhancing bivalve assemblages and their associated functioning (clearance rates) and reducing non-indigenous species on artificial structures in harbours and ports.
Conduct meta-analysis on the efficacy of green engineering techniques for enhancing native species and reducing non-indigenous species richness and abundances on artificial structures in harbours and ports.
Workgroup Leader: Melanie Bishop
For more information on this workgroup: Contact Beth
6 MONTH RESULTS:
– crevices are important for growth and survival of bivalves
– crevices are important for latter settlement colonisation of associated species
– 5 cm crevices and bivalves are cooler and more moist
GLOBAL PARTNERS
Commenced: Auckland, Sydney, Taipei, Chesapeake Bay, San Francisco, Dublin, Plymouth, Tel, Aviv
Starting soon: Hong Kong, Rio de Janeiro, Hobart, Penang, Port Elizabeth, Coquimbo, Ravenna
TAIWAN
CHILE
SAN FRANCISCO
Tiles for this project provided by World Harbour Project partner, Reef Design Lab
The REEF DESIGN LAB is not for profit design studio and think tank based in Melbourne Australia, dedicated to advancing the effectiveness of purpose built reefs. Out of respect for marine life, RDL is passionate about seeing ‘better design below the waterline’ where marine infrastructure includes features that help support local biodiversity.
Our mission is to provide engineers and architects the type of cutting edge products they need to transform existing infrastructure or green engineer new sustainable developments.
We produce a range of off-the-shelf and custom designed reef units in concrete, ceramic, sandstone and recycled plastic using a range of moulding and advanced manufacturing techniques including 3D printing. Design applications include enhancement of seawalls and jetties for bivalves and fishing and aesthetics, constructed reefs for diving and snorkelling, reef restoration and impact mitigation, research, aquaculture, and underwater sculptures.
We supply units to individuals, government, developers, architects, universities, NGOs and commercial operations. Give us a call to discuss your needs.
