• Natural and artificial reefs provide a home for countless animals.coral reef image by Christian Schoettler from Fotolia.com
  
  Artificial reefs are humanmade structures that mimic natural coral, rock and sand formations in ecology and function. Some become reefs by accident, for example shipwrecks and offshore wind turbines, and other are purpose-built structures. Artificial reefs often reduce or prevent coastal erosion and provide an invaluable habitat for thousands of marine organisms.
  
  

Reduced Erosion

• Natural reefs reduce coastal erosion by slowing down waves as they head towards the shore. Artificial reefs can perform the same function, whether built to replace damaged natural formations or as completely new structures. Artificial reefs built primarily of rock play a key role in combating sand dune erosion.
  
  

Increased Biodiversity

• Reefs rival rainforests for the variety of organisms they harbor. Coral bleaching, trawler fishing and coral harvesting have seriously damaged natural reefs, especially coral reefs. Artificial reefs provide an alternative habitat for thousands of species of crabs; fish, including sharks; mollusks; mammals; and reptiles, such as sea turtles.
  
  

Increased Tourism

• Artificial reefs have commercial value for the water-sports and tourism industries. Scuba divers and snorkelers bring money to a region. Shipwrecks have always been an attraction, but the diversity of any artificial reef makes them a more attractive diving location. Deliberately sunk ships provide both an exciting experience for scuba divers and a good environment for an array of colorful marine animals.
  
  

Increased Seafood Productivity

• Reefs act as nurseries for the fry of commercially valuable fish. Artificial reefs also provide a valuable habitat for oysters, lobsters, crabs and mussels. In 2002, work began on an artificial reef near Oban, Scotland. The reef has greatly increased the local supply of lobster, cod and shellfish. Overfishing is a serious ecological problem with potentially devastating consequences. Artificial reefs could play a key role in sustainable seafood harvesting.