Artificial reef of Al-Abdeh - North Lebanon : biodiversity baseline assessment

Abstract

Artificial reefs, which are a way for restoring the ecosystem, are being deployed worldwide and are shown to be very effective in the proliferation of natural production of biological marine resources. They attract fish, motile and biological species very quickly after their deployment (Stolk et al., 2007). The first official artificial reef in Lebanon was deployed in Al- Abdeh, Akkar in 2012 by the MCR-IOE-UOB team in collaboration with many public and private institutions. The purpose is to provide a habitat for marine species and to create a potential diving site for recreational scuba divers and research and educational activities. In addition, it enhances biodiversity by helping in the protection of sensitive habitats from fishing activities, supporting professional and recreational fisheries in Al -Abdeh and providing shelter for aquatic organisms (Fabi et al., 2014). The objective of this project is to conduct a baseline study assessment of the colonization of benthic communities and fish assemblages in the artificial reef. Five dives were held covering the eight units forming the Artificial Reef of Al-Abdeh. A total of 16 fish and motile species were identified. In addition, 38 species of macraufauna, and macroalgae and seagrass were recorded on all units. In addition, sediment samples were taken from the proximity all units to identify flora and sediment composition. It was found that the sediment around the reef is mainly sand of the coarse category and 39 species of infauna and red algae were recorded. Although the area is known to be muddy, yet silt could not be captured and assessed with the samples because of its high tendency to get suspended in water. Chi Square (χ2) Test and t-test were done to see if there are any significant differences between units. No significant correlation was found. This study provides a baseline 5 years after the deployment of the Artificial Reef. This extensive baseline will therefore open the possibilities to conduct more advanced research and monitoring of the reef.