As reported by the Sun Sentinel 20th June 2009,” A proposal to install an electrified artificial reef on the ocean floor off Lauderdale-by-the-Sea has won approval from a key federal agency, making it more likely the high-tech conservation project will get built.
The Army Corps of Engineers issued a permit to the town to work with Global Coral Reef Alliance, of Cambridge, Mass., to install a cluster of metal structures that would use a low-voltage current to stimulate the growth of corals, creating habitat for fish and other marine creatures. The group has used the patented Biorock process to construct artificial reefs in several other countries, including Mexico, Jamaica and Indonesia.”
The electrified reef project will consist of assembling hut like metal structures, to which pieces of living coral would be attached to them. Buoys fitted with solar panels would provide electricity to the structures and draw dissolved minerals from the sea water causing the corals to grow almost five times faster. The contract is estimated to be worth $65,000, but it is still unclear when the project will commence building.
Photos: Sun Sentinel , Biorock Technology
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Wow this is quite amazing. There is a lot this technology can do in the conservation field if it works well. Imagine the applications to rebuilding damaged reefs. Hope to hear more about this.