Boscombe Surf Reef Ecology & Marine Wildlife
A partnership led by Bournemouth University is investigating the biological colonisation of the newly constructed Boscombe Surf Reef, in Poole Bay near Bournemouth.
The aim of the three year project, supported by the Esmée Fairbairn Foundation, is to quantify the colonisation and succession of marine organisms on the reef structure and to compare with nearby natural rocky outcrops in Poole Bay and other structures including Boscombe and Bournemouth Pier. By monitoring the algae and animal assemblages that develop over the next few years, this study will also provide data and information to evaluate habitat quality and potential food resources for juvenile and adult fish that will help us understand any observed changes in fish communities that might be attributed to the construction of the reef. Fish and shellfish studies, together with a benthic invertebrate sampling programme, commenced prior to the completion of the structure and will continue till 2013.
In association with project URBANE (Urban Research on Biodiversity in Artificial & Natural Coastal Environments), the project will demonstrate the value of the biodiversity on the surf reef compared to other structures and nearby natural rocky reefs and outcrops and contribute to design guidelines for artificial structures to enhance biodiversity and fisheries resources.
The partnership is led by scientists at the Bournemouth University, School of Applied Sciences, Dorset Wildlife Trust Seasearch and the National Oceanography Centre at Southampton.
Contact: Dr Roger Herbert
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