Harte Research Institute scientists monitor artificial reefs

Scientists at Texas A&M’s Harte Research Institute are monitoring artificial reefs to evaluate the effects of manmade structures on ocean ecosystems, according to Scientific American.

The project started in 2012. HRI scuba divers observe the artificial reefs in person.  Researchers also deploy fishing lines to sample fish on the reefs. They have a remotely operated vehicle used to observe areas below 90 feet deep.

Recently, a host of artificial reef structures were deployed off the coast of Corpus Christi, Texas by Callan Marine. Hart Research Institute scientists will monitor the reefs from the start to observe how fish and other organisms populate them.

Texas Parks and Wildlife Department created a map showing locations of artificial reefs off the Texas coast.