What is the role of artificial structures in coral restoration?

Artificial structures play a significant role in coral restoration primarily by providing substrate for coral attachment. When coral reefs are damaged or degraded, the existing natural substrate may become unsuitable for coral larvae to settle and grow. Artificial structures, such as reef blocks, concrete sculptures, or other engineered materials, offer a stable and suitable environment for coral polyps to attach themselves and begin to grow. This is essential in areas where natural substrates have been destroyed or are lacking, effectively facilitating the rehabilitation of damaged coral ecosystems.

In contrast to this role, barriers for fishing activities, sources of pollution, and increased water temperature are generally negative aspects associated with marine environments. Barriers can disrupt local fish populations and ecosystems, while pollution and temperature changes can further stress and harm coral reefs. This illustrates that while these other factors may influence marine ecosystems, they do not contribute positively to the process of coral restoration like artificially providing a substrate does.