Fish-friendly architecture in the Gulf

The next stage of algal bloom recovery operations kicks off this month when two new artificial reefs are established in Gulf St Vincent.

In a bid to rebuild fish stocks, increase biodiversity and enhance recreational fishing opportunities, purpose-built concrete modules will be installed in the waters off Wirrina on the Fleurieu Peninsula, and Kangaroo Island’s Nepean Bay.

Designed to mimic coral structures, these artificial reefs will help to transform two algal-bloom impacted areas into healthier marine ecosystems over time.

The reefs will provide hard substrate for oyster settlement and support the recovery and growth of a variety of marine species at Wirrina and Nepean Bay, including kingfish, mulloway, snapper, and cephalopods such as squid and octopus.

The Malinauskas and Albanese Labor Governments have jointly invested $600,000 to establish the new reefs at Wirrina and Kangaroo Island, supporting RecFish SA to plan, manufacture and deliver the project to aid the long-term recovery of fish stocks in two popular recreational fishing areas.

This funding forms part of the broader $162.5 million algal bloom response being delivered by both Governments.

Once open for recreational fishing, the Wirrina and Nepean Bay reefs are expected to become drawcards for anglers, delivering a boost to regional coastal community visitation, local economic activity and recreational fishing tourism in South Australia.

To support fish stocks and other marine life to establish themselves in their new ‘underwater communities’, fishing will not be permitted for at least 12 months following installation of the reefs.

Both sites will be monitored to map their gradual transformation and deliver valuable research that will inform future artificial reef deployments across South Australia.