Bio Reef

Bio-Reefs embody our commitment to sustainable solutions through innovative ecological engineering. Crafted from 100% recycled concrete, steel and oyster shells, their unique design significantly boosts marine biodiversity and ecosystem productivity, setting a new environmental standard for artificial reef construction.

Circular ecological engineering solutions

We believe in giving materials a second life, diverting them from landfills and minimising the demand for new resources, by embodying circularity, sustainability, and resource efficiency. 

Typically, artificial reef construction relies on raw materials such as concrete and steel. While these materials are effective, their production contributes to the depletion of natural resources and carbon emissions. Instead, we utilise by-products from the construction and aquaculture industries. This approach not only significantly reduces the CO2 footprint but also repurposes materials that would otherwise contribute to landfill or undergo energy intensive recycling processes. Consequently, our innovative approach to production effectively eliminates the environmental impacts of artificial reef construction, delivering unrivalled sustainable, scalable and cost-effective ecosystem enhancement solutions.

Nature inspired, ecosystem solutions

At In-Depth, our expertise lies in creating bespoke artificial reef designs, each uniquely tailored to meet specific needs of the species, environmental conditions, and our clients' requirements.
Our Bio-Reef range is inspired by the principles of biomimicry, closely mirroring natural habitats and designed holistically by integrating key biological, ecological, and physical requirements. This comprehensive design methodology ensures habitats that support the full marine food web, maintaining ecological balance and fostering self-sustaining marine ecosystems.

The external surfaces of Bio-Reef modules are strategically designed to encourage upwelling and nutrient flow, while also minimising siltation, vital for benthic growth. The textured surfaces, along with designed voids and refuges, optimises colonisation and overall productivity.

A unique feature of our Bio-Reef is the addition of the 'ledge', designed to replicate the functions of a coral bommie. This feature provides increased vertical relief and a refuge for crustaceans and small fish species, while also attracting larger resident demersal species like coral trout and grouper, promoting ecological balance within the habitat.

Engineered and configured for optimal productivity


 

Bio-Reef are designed to be configured in clusters to mimic naturally occurring rock and reef habitats. For maximum effectiveness clusters can also be strategically arranged around a central steel EcoPinnacles, with specific configurations influenced by the desired objectives, target species, water depth, currents, and substrate types. This customised approach ensures that the artificial reefs effectively fulfill the required ecological functions.

The placement and configuration of Bio-Reef clusters is also carefully planned, considering tidal directions and currents to maximise their ecological impact and enhance fisheries productivity. Our designs consider target species behaviours in response to different hydrological conditions, such as upwelling, pressure waves, eddies, and slipstreams. Such attention to detail is crucial in optimising habitat quality, improving nutrient flow, and increasing overall productivity. Furthermore, the strategic layout of these modules generates interstitial spaces, essential for creating a connected habitat network.

Bio-Reef can also be strategically configured to extend fishing areas, providing more opportunities for anglers, and promoting an equitable distribution of fishing efforts. This configuration not only assists with fisheries management but also contributes to the social and economic well-being of local fishing communities.

Durability and stability for sustained productivity

Bio-Reef modules are designed for durability, offering a minimum operational lifespan of 50 years. This longevity contributes to lasting ecological, economic, and social benefits. Engineered to withstand extreme weather conditions, including 1 in 100-year storm events, they have been constructed to maintain structural integrity and position when placed in appropriate water depths and substrate. The pyramid design features a low centre of gravity with a wide, wedge-shaped base to eliminate tipping or sliding, ensuring it remains firmly anchored on the sea floor and resistant to movement.