Artifical reefs help to preserve valuable ecosystems
Curacao's intact coral reefs belong to the most popular attraction for
divers and snorkelers. Globally however, corals are endangered by human
influences such as pollution and overfishing of the oceans
and have already been severely damaged in various places over the
world. Climate change and weather phenomena such as El Niño,
rising water temperatures can destroy entire reef systems.
In many
places, artificial reefs are built to preserve or rebuild these valuable
ecosystems.
A very special Biorock® reef currently grows at Curaçao Divers.
Large
metal constructions were placed in a shallow, sandy area at the house
reef in front of the Sun Reef Village on Sea. These metal constructions
get a slight, gentle current of electricity. Naturally broken Coral
pieces get collected and saved by being attached to the structure. The
electrical current generates electrolysis, through which, minerals from
the sea water like calcium carbonate settles on the metal structure.
This limestone provides a perfect underground for coral growth. The
small electrical current sets in the coral polyp’s true super powers
free:
In this electric field, corals grow up to 5 times faster than under
natural conditions and are up to 50 times more resistant towards
harmful environmental influences.
Fishes and other marine life appreciate the artificial reefs as a
source of food and shelter. Within a short period of time, Biorocks®
transform into an underwater oasis full of life and is an attraction
for divers and snorkelers.
This is why the Curacao BioRock Foundation was founded at the end of
December 2016 in order to maintain this and future projects.
For more information see:
www.curacao-biorock.org
- www.globalcoral.org Curacao Divers
Presentation Biorock project (pdf)
Video
Herbert
27th February 2017
