Optimizing Artificial Reef Structures for Japanese Marine Industries

Overview

This project conducted a meta-analysis of the past and current use and workings of artificial reefs. Further analysis was given to the criteria a structure would need to be advantageous for use in Japan. According to research, artificial reef structures should have the ability to alter surrounding water velocity levels, the ability to alter surrounding pressure levels, and should have a larger percentage of non-horizontal spaces compared to horizontal spaces. Furthermore, a successful reef should have a high number and volume of shadowed hollow areas mimicking caves/crevices. Based on this research, an optimized design was created and tested against two commonly used artificial reef designs: a tire reef and a standard concrete cube reef. It was hypothesized that the structure specifically designed for use in Japan would perform better in 5 tests deemed crucial to an artificial reef’s success in Japanese waters. Computer simulations and mathematical analysis were performed on the reefs and results were then compiled. The results of the designs were ranked 1-3 for each test and entered into an anova calculator. The hypothesis was accepted. The specialized design performed better than other designs (p =.000017). Implementation of this reef would be an efficient means to increase biomass and benefit the ecosystems that live off the coasts of Japan.