Stabilization of rubble using wire mesh to promote reef recovery

Last year we added a novel approach of using metal wire mesh across areas of rubble in an effort to stabilize the shifting substrate and reduce erosion. Our test plot was 6m long and 1m wide and placed along the reef slope. We then monitored the site for rubble movement and natural settlement of corals and other reef organisms.

After one year of monitoring the test plot we found that the mesh was able to reduce rubble movement down the reef slope and prevent erosion below. Additionally the trapped rubble became stabilized and hosted Xenia soft corals, sponges, and Coraline algae - all exciting organisms to colonize the area; representing the initial stages of reef recovery!

As we expand our coral restoration project over a larger area of degraded reef, we have started to use this technique of wire mesh stabilization. We are rolling out mesh across areas of rubble between the coral frames in an effort to promote settlement of soft corals and other living substrates. If we are also able to reduce rubble movement and erosion then this area of degraded reef will be able to regenerate.

The exciting thing about coral restoration is adapting techniques to the specific environmental conditions of a particular reef. Our restoration site at Sental Reef on Nusa Penida is on a steep slope exposed to strong currents so is prone becoming a “rubble desert” unless we can reduce erosion and re-establish reef building coral communities.

This is one of several techniques which marine biologist Andrew Taylor and our Blue Corner Marine Research team is using to restore the coral reef around the Nusa Islands.