Deployment of artificial habitats alone cannot make up for the degradation of coral reefs

Abstract

Artificial habitat projects are expensive endeavors that should be carefully designed and planned to be sustainable and effective. • Artificial habitats must be implemented with other fisheries enhancement and management measures and be monitored to allow for future improvements in site selection criteria and design. • Coral reef rehabilitation is much more expensive than protection. • Given the considerable cost and effort involved, artificial habitat deployments are justified in only a few situations. The lessons shared in this brief contain recommendations for the review and amendment of the joint memorandum concerning the use and management of artificial reefs.