EcoReefs Products

Modules look instantly organic [and] as a naturally beautiful reef takes over, EcoReefs performs its duty as a substrate, functioning well both ecologically and aesthetically. EcoReefs not only create something immediately attractive, they do so over a large area no matter what the existing topography.

Jessica Tallman, Reef Restoration Handbook

EcoReefs Ceramic Artificial Reef Modules

Product Description:

• EcoReefs modules have been carefully engineered to meet the specific ecological needs of fish and corals, to be easily installed with a minimum of logistics, and to provide a functional, aesthetically-pleasing marine ecological enhancement suitable for impact mitigation and resort/watersports use, and large-scale coastal development.
• The modules have a spiny, branching design that simulates the growth habit of branching corals.
• When installed in large arrays on the seafloor, EcoReefs modules create a dense, natural-looking reef thicket with abundant, dimensionally complex space for herbivorous fish and juvenile fish.
• Small reef fish living in EcoReefs installations naturally keep algae and soft coral overgrowth under control, creating favorable conditions for rapid coral colonization.

Special Features:

• EcoReefs modules have patented features to help facilitate the successful settlement of microscopic coral larvae, including shaded settling surfaces raised off of the bottom for protection, fluted surfaces to generate turbulence, and a microporous surface texture for improved coral adhesion.
• Coral branch tips can be easily and successfully transplanted onto the modules, either directly attached to the ceramic branches or, in the case of nursery-grown corals, mounted in wells provided on the upper surface of each module.
• When installed in large, close-packed arrays of hundreds to thousands of modules, the turbulence generated by the module branches slows water flow over the site, stabilizing sediment and creating conditions conducive to rapid coral reef establishment.
• EcoReefs modules can be complemented with other materials (e.g. limestone boulders) for additional habitat variety.
• The modules are quickly and easily assembled from mass-produced components flat-packed in boxes and delivered in standard ocean shipping containers.

Materials:

• EcoReefs modules are made from specially-formulated ceramic that is non-toxic and non-reactive in seawater, and is a superior material for encouraging coral growth compared to concrete or metal. Corals (recruits or transplants) can readily and firmly cement on to the module ceramic.

Manufacturing:

• EcoReefs modules are mass produced using state-of-the-art high-volume industrial ceramics production methods.
• We use CAD engineered designs and CNC machine cut molds to assure piece quality and consistency.
• Additional module types can be manufactured upon request to meet specific needs.

General Specifications:

• Each module is assembled from 6 Branch components and 2 Hub components.
• Modules are assembled with high-strength plastic band clamps or marine-grade epoxy.
• Modules are shipped flat-packed in boxes in standard ocean shipping containers.
• A 40ft container holds components to build 700 modules.
• A 20ft container holds components to build 325 modules.
• Module Diameter: 92cm (36.25in)
• Module Height: 42cm (16.5in)
• Module Top Hub Height: 28cm (11.0in)
• Module Bottom Hub Height: 15cm (5.75in)
• Module Footprint: 0.67 m2
• Module Surface Area: 1.27 m2

Feature Specifications:

• 30 Branches, Lengths: 18cm-32cm (7.0in-12.5in), 72 Secondary Spines
• 15 Large Flutes on Hub Exterior, Width: 13mm (0.5in)
• 30 Small Flutes on Hub Interior, Width: 7mm (0.25in)
• 3 Transplant Wells on Hub Exterior, Diameter: 45mm (1.75in), Depth: 13mm (0.5in)
• 1 Anchoring Hole at Hub Center, Diameter 28.6mm (1.125in)

Example Reef Layout: 500 Module CG Swimthrough

EcoReefs Sand/Rubble Anchors

The EcoReefs sand/rubble anchor system is used for installation on loose, unconsolidated reef substrates.

Specially developed by EcoReefs, this system consists of a plastic toggle anchor with a stainless steel cable tethered to the module.

A powered hammer and drive rod are used to bury the anchor, which then pivots in the subsurface and secures the module.

EcoReefs Hardground Anchors

The EcoReefs hardground anchor system is used for installations on reef limestone or other similar hard substrates.

Specially developed by EcoReefs, this anchor system uses a threaded, non-corrodable FRP rod (fiberglass reinforced plastic) cemented into a pre-drilled hole.

A powered hammer drill is used to make the hole and the FRP rod is cemented in with UW epoxy. The module is placed over the rod and secured with two poly lock nuts.