In 2022, with the ReFish project, the Yacht Club de Bormes les Mimosas took a step towards preserving marine biodiversity. In partnership with the company Seaboost, artificial reefs were introduced into the port. These marine micro-habitats are made up of artificial seagrass beds and shellfish habitats. They have a clear objective: to provide a sanctuary for juvenile fish, while enriching the coastal ecosystem. Thanks to this bold initiative, the port of Bormes is becoming the scene of a fascinating underwater renaissance.
Seaboost Reefs
True to its environmental action in favor of the biodiversity, le Bormes les Mimosas Yacht Club installed in 2022 artificial reefs developed by the company Seaboost. These modules consist of hard and shelly micro-habitats, and artificial seagrass beds. By reconstructing the habitat characteristics of shallow coastal waters, they allow to welcome and protect to juvenile fish while providing them with a power source. These herbariums allow us to multiply by six la habitat area fish, compared to a bare dock.
ReFish: an artificial nursery
ReFish and the scientific program which aims to to recreate these artificial nurseries in the port of Bormes. 25m2 nurseries have been installed. Thanks to the seagrass beds, juvenile fish can to take refuge there, to feed there and to grow there. Then they will be able to join the adult populations later in life. depth and live the cycles of their life including the reproduction. The artificial nurseries have no need an special maintenance. They are robust and et integrate sustainably in the underwater landscape of the port.
the balance sheet
The device allows to increase the abundance of juveniles by 3 to 8. Those are 60% more species on the shelters, which allows the port to reach a almost similar level to that observed on the natural area. In addition, the division between herbivorous and carnivorous species is more balanced than on unequipped platforms. This is an additional indication of a better balance of the ecosystem.
A connected port
When you walk around the port, you can discover panels presenting the different underwater species present in Bormes. Download the application BormesMed3D to discover these species in 3D outside of the water!
The adventure of Seaboost reefs within the port of Bormes is a living testimony de the positive impact that we can have on our environment when science, technology and will come together. These artificial structures are not only shelters for juvenile fish, but also ssymbols of our commitment towards the preservation of marine biodiversity.
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