Enhancing Marine Biodiversity Through Modular Structures

Enhancing Marine Biodiversity Through Modular Structures

SISSEL MARIE MORLEY

Author: Sissel Marie Morley Institution: Gri th University, Gold Coast Campus Department: Gri th School of Environment and Science Date: Summer Scholarships program 2025 (07/02/2025)

TABLE OF CONTENTS

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Introduction Image references Research Questions and Objectives Coral System Case Studies ◦ Underwater Sculpture Installations | Jason deCaires Taylor ◦ Reformative Coral Habitats | Reef Tiles ◦ Modular Arti cial Reef Structure (MARS) | Reef Design Lab Design Strategy Site Location Design Process Design Findings Material Selection and Construction Modularity in Arti cial Reefs Final Model Conclusion Acknowledgments Thank you Bibliography Image References Auto-Correction Notes

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INTRODUCTION Arti cial reefs (AR) are submerged structures placed into deliberate location.They play a key role in restoring damaged ecosystems by providing structures that promote biodiversity and support marine life. Features like texture, shape, and material are crucial for encouraging the growth of organisms like corals and algae (Leonard et al., 2022). These reefs are designed to support marine species while withstanding erosion, aligning with environmentally responsible construction guidelines (OSPAR Commission, 2013).

The "Living Architecture" research proposes a multidisciplinary approach that integrates coral ecosystems into design processes. This approach focuses on ecological and architectural sustainability, recommending bio-enhancing surfaces tailored for coral growth and tools to aid in planning underwater structures providing coastal protection (Linaraki, D., Stevens, T., Baumeister, J., & Burton, P., 2023).

The Museum of Underwater Art (MOUA) in Australia has also been studied for its use of speci c materials to create arti cial reefs. At John Brewer Reef, surveys of the world's largest underwater sculpture showed signi cant increases in sh diversity and numbers. In 2018, 12 species and 65 individuals were recorded, compared to 46 species and 365 individuals in 2022 (Adam Smith et al., 2022). These results highlight the positive impact of arti cial reefs on marine ecosystems.

Advances in 3D printing have further enhanced the design of arti cial reefs, allowing for the creation of complex ceramic structures with improved ecological functions (Berman et al., 2023).

For example, the "Reformative Coral Habitats | Reef Tiles" project, conducted by the Robotic Fabrication Lab and the Swire Institute of Marine Science (SWIMS) at the University of Hong Kong, aims to restore coral habitats in Hoi Ha Wan Marine Park, Hong Kong.

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The Reef Design Lab focus on the creation of arti cial habitats tailored to enhance marine biodiversity, collecting data for research of the outcome of various design methodologies (Vogler, V. 2022). Base on the environment location and supporting ecosystem, this multidisciplinary studio combines architecture, science, and technology to create solutions that promote ecological restoration and habitat enhancement (Takens, V. 2024).

The RDL Team is base in Melbourne are responsible for the development of a diverse range of products: EMU modules shaped concrete mixed with oyster shells to reduce coastal erosion in Port Phillip Bay (Tian Lin 2023). Modular Arti cial Reef Structure (MARS), 3DP modular unit specially designed geometry with irregular surface to support transplanted coral, made from ceramic from slip cast modes, the parametric geometry triangle structural complex (Maslov et al.

2024).

Using pottery and ceramics in arti cial reefs is emerging as a sustainable restoration strategy.

These materials show great potential due to their durability, eco-friendliness, and ability to support marine biodiversity. Research highlights ceramics as a promising option for reef restoration (Kalam et al., 2018). Hybrid methods, combining traditional and digital techniques, have been used to create microhabitats suited for arti cial reef systems (Trilsbeck et al., 2019).

Clay 3DP is used to replicate complex coral habitat in a modular scale,(Levy et al., 2022). The ceramic material used has an estimated density of 3,800 kg/m³ (3.8 × 10³ kg/m³). With a speci ed thickness of 2 cm (0.02 m) and a layering height of 7 mm (0.007 m), the weight of a cubic meter of this printed ceramic is approximately 1 ton (1,000 kg). This accounts for the clay's natural humidity content of about 20%.

RESEARCH QUESTION AND OBJECTIVES This research hypothesised that an architectural design structure can be implemented to the submarine landscape to support the survival, regeneration and growth of the marine ecosystem.

The concept archetype to aid biodiversity by design an optimum underwater structural habit composition (Linaraki, D., Stevens, T., Baumeister, J., & Burton, P., 2023).

This study focused on the use of clay as the main materials in the creation of arti cial reef architectural structures to develop an expanding structural system that supports marine biodiversity and ecosystem restoration.

Research question asks: How can an architectural arti cial reef structure, guided by design principles, enhance marine habitat and support biodiversity?

The primary research: Optimised architectural design AR solution.

The objectives of this research is to explore the unique properties of the coral reef structures and identify the characteristics of an optimum architectural design structure. Explore a variety of design solutions to generate cohesive prototype model that can be replicate scale and reproduced. Aiming to mimic the complexity of natural reefs while allowing for scalable growth and integration into various marine environments.

The secondary research: Clay’s properties to support a prototype model to be used as AR. How clay can be used as a sustainable, versatile, durable, and textured material that is compatible with supporting coral and algae growth for reef restoration. A key goal is to investigate how clay's natural adaptability and textural properties can be enhanced through hybrid techniques, such as combining traditional and advanced technologies, to create a prototype model that can be scaled and modular. This research also seeks to examine the chemical composition of clay and its structural properties, focusing on how these factors impact and are in uenced by marine biodiversity. It will analyse clay’s ability to attract and support marine life while maintaining structural integrity against erosion and destruction caused by the natural underwater environment.

The results of this research will culminate in a comprehensive report that provides recommendations and guidance for future arti cial reef structures. By addressing these objectives, the study aims to determine whether clay-based materials and design methodologies can contribute to the development of sustainable and innovative solutions for arti cial reef design, aligning ecological restoration goals with architectural advancements.

CORAL SYSTEM Coral reefs are three-dimensional complex system considered one of the most diverse ecosystems on Earth. Consists of colonies of soft-bodied polyps which are the fundamental organism of coral. Corals are often classi ed into two main types: hard corals (Scleractinia), which build reef structures, and soft corals, which lack a rigid calcium carbonate skeleton.

Supporting Marine Life consists of algae, sponges and bivalves mussels (responsible for lter, the water in creating micro habitats) shes in order forms of life that aid to the ecosystem development, by contribute to the food production.

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Anatomy of Corals: • Polyps: Corals are made up of thousands of small, soft-bodied polyps.

Each polyp has a sac-like body with a central mouth surrounded by tentacles.

Skeleton: Hard corals secrete calcium carbonate (CaCO₃) to build exoskeletons, creating the reef structure over time.

• Symbiosis with Zooxanthellae: collaborative relationship with microscopic algae called zooxanthellae, which live in their tissues. These algae provide corals with nutrients through photosynthesis and give them their vibrant colours.

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The life cycle of corals includes reproduction both sexually and asexually.

The sexual process called “coral spawning”, enhances genetic diversity, resilience and expand colonisation into new ares. Fragmentation is asexual reproduction of corals, when a portion of a coral colony breaks o and forming a new independent colony.

These mechanisms are critical for maintaining coral populations and ensuring the structural integrity of reefs in dynamic marine environments (Linaraki et al., 2023).

The generation of biogenic sediments, formed from fragments of broken down coral due to erosion. Bioerosion is a naturally occurring process which can be caused by bioeroders and/or destroyers. These sediments consist primarily of calcium carbonate (CaCO₃) or silica (SiO₂) (Araújo, M. E. 2024).

Coral reef shape form is in uenced by location topographic, water ow, depth and other factors. The geometry is an important factor and plays a crucial role on the success or failure of the colony that inhabited it (Brandes 2020) CASE STUDIES 1. Underwater Sculpture Installations | Jason deCaires Taylor Multiple Global Locations | Marine and Freshwater Environments Active Dates: 2006 – Present British sculptor and environmentalist Jason deCaires Taylor is a pioneer in aquatic art installations and has created over 1,200 underwater sculptures. These works span 14 sites worldwide, including 12 in marine environments and two in freshwater ecosystems, blending artistry with ecological restoration.

In Australia, “The Coral Greenhouse” at John Brewer Reef, part of the Museum of Underwater Art, this large scale under water architecture designed to evolve with nature, illustrates how “Living Architecture” underwater structures (Linaraki, D., Stevens, T., Baumeister, J., & Burton, P., 2023), can enhance and promote a sustainable marine life habits. The triangular cross section with elevated beam design is engineered to have a low centre gravity to improve stability. Made from pH neutral cement compounds and corrosion resistant 316 Stainless steel.

Demonstrated signi cant increases in sh diversity and numbers from 2018, 12 species and 65 individuals were recorded, in compared to 46 species and 365 individuals in 2022 (Adam Smith et al., 2022). These results highlight the positive impact of arti cial reefs on marine ecosystems.

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Figure 1, The Coral Greenhouse

2. Reformative Coral Habitats | Reef Tiles Robotic Fabrication Lab | Faculty of Architecture | The University of Hong Kong Active Dates: August 2019 - July 2020 The coral restoration project by The University of Hong Kong, aimed to create terracotta reef tiles structures that provide complex support and promote coral attachment opportunities for expansion and natural growth. These reef tiles are designed to prevent sedimentation buildup, with gaps on allow debris and sedimentation to pass through it. By incorporating biomimetic patterns and spaces for securing coral fragments. A total of 128 reef tiles, each with a diameter of 600 mm, were produced using a robotic 3DP clay printing method.

Figure 2, Reef Tiles

The pilot study focuses on three coral species—Acropora (staghorn corals), Platygyra (brain corals), and Pavona (leaf corals)—selected for their varying growth strategies and adaptability to environmental stressors. Deployed at three sites within the marine park: Coral Beach, Moon Island, and sheltered bay, near the WWF Marine Life Education Center, Hong Kong.

The project has demonstrated a signi cant increase in coral survivorship compared to traditional restoration methods. Archireef, a company that emerged from this initiative, reports a 95% coral survival rate after three years, which is more than four times higher than that achieved with conventional techniques. This success has been attributed to the biomimetic design of the tiles, which mimic natural coral structures and provide a conducive environment for coral growth.

3. Modular Arti cial Reef Structure (MARS) | Reef Design Lab Field Implementation: Multiple locations Active Dates: January 2018 – July 2020 The MARS project employs scalable hexagonal structures made of ceramic outer shell which encourages the natural recruitment of juvenile corals and facilitates the attachment of transplanted corals. The structural complexity provides shelter and breeding grounds for diverse aquatic species.

The modular design allows for customisable con gurations, adapting to speci c site conditions. Measuring 1.2 meters in diameter, integrates openings and surface textures inspired by natural reef systems to promote attachment of aquatic organisms, mitigate sediment accumulation, and enhance habitat complexity. Initial ndings show a signi cant uptick in aquatic species diversity and population density around the structures compared to non-reef areas, demonstrates potential for integrating sustainability and urban waterway restoration.

Figure 3, MARS

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Reef Design Lab Australia: 2017-2018 VIC, pilot studies.

Maldives: 2018 coral nurseries and support biodiversity.

Singapore: 2019 urban coastal waters.

Thailand: 2019 impacted by tourism and environmental stressors.

Indonesia: 2019-2020 reef rebuilding.

Fiji: 2020 support coral nurseries and coastal resilience.

DESIGN STRATEGY The design guide focus on adaptability of an e ective geometry that o ers a multifunctional solution , with a deeper exploration of how speci c design parameters in uence the outcomes.

Based on the use of shapes, which integrate more synthetically with the coastal environment and functionality (Silva 2022). To provide a better in sign into the relationship of the form with the targeted functionality is important to subdivide the three main group: (i) Coral attachment and growth potential, (ii) Fisheries and biodiversity restoration, (iii) Recreational diving and tourism attractions

Occupant

Bio diversity habit

General coral growth direction

(i) Permanent (ii) Territory (iii) Visitor

No habitat Artificial reef

Growth direction Attachment point Figure 4, Design strategy diagram

By considering those predominant functions, an e ective concept design skeleton will evolve from the constant correlation of the three main groups, a triangular dynamic of predominantly antagonistic characteristics.

• (i) CORAL -surface accretion in a liner direction to support (Linaraki, 2023) • (ii) FISHERY -perpendicular structure minimise currents and promote sh clusters.

(Rec shwest. 2017) • (iii) TURISM -series of installations and sculptures. (MOUA)

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Keeping in mind previous considerations for the AR design solutions inspired by the case studies this research is dedicated to contributing to the development of alternative design approaches. The peculiarities of the designs obtained are analysed and discussed, in-depth, as well as, the criteria adopted to select shape and geometry de nition is described in Design Process (Figure 4).

A eld trip to Morton Island was conducted to collect data on how the coral (i), shery (ii) and tourist (iii) interacted with each other in correlation of the reef structure presence. Observation of structural voids, structural angles, light vs shade, structure hight and complexity, waves, water currents, sedimentation, typology, animal species and species of coral impact the AR zone.

The analysis of data collected was used to inform on the ecosystem bene t of an architectural curated element compilation, such as hight x depth, angles, voids, complexity, light/shadow, and more can improve signi cantly the AR growth potential.

Location MOUA - John Brewer Reef MOUA

John Brewer Reef Site

Ocean Sentinels

Green house

Reef 5M

6M

9M

14M

16M

Figure 5, Site location

SITE LOCATION

This location was selected as the proposed site due to its clear waters, abundant marine life, and accessibility for tourists and researchers. The Museum of Underwater Art (MOUA) at John Brewer Reef is situated o the coast of Townsville, Australia. The site o ers an ideal blend of art sculptures (as preview mentioned on rst precedent) and the natural underwater environment (similar to precedent two and three), supporting coral growth due to its optimal water depth, attracting diverse marine species thanks to favourable water temperatures, and from it’s established tourism industry.

DESIGN PROCESS The conceptual and preliminary design phases incorporate a compilation of models and schematic representations, informed by principles dawned from the three precedents. These models de ne critical geometrical parameters, including surface curvature, texture, and modular connectivity, to enhance structural integrity and facilitate adaptive capacity under the intense marine conditions (Silva, 2022 ).

The design methodology for a living architectural structure focus on advanced parametric modelling to optimise ecological, hydrodynamic, and functional parameters.

Shape

Modularity Physical Model

Sea Current

Ocean Tied

John Brew Site

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Surface Space

DESIGN PROCESS Shape

Modularity

Sea Current

Ocean Tied

John

Site Surface Space

Retention Zone

Porosity

Coral Metric

Bio Diversity

Surface Space

Design Variation

Figure 7, The diagram illustrate three of the best model designs and parameters.

DESIGN FINDINGS The presented design ndings diagram categorises the performance of various design parameters, using a colour scheme (green, yellow, red) to indicate e ectiveness across multiple criteria. Overall, the ndings indicate that circular geometries consistently outperform in ecological, hydrodynamic, and functional metrics, making them the optimal choice for this project. Square con gurations o er viable alternatives with moderate e ectiveness, while triangular shapes are generally less favourable across evaluated parameters.

Shape

Modularity

Sea Current

Ocean Tied

John Brewer Reef Site

Surface Space

Retention Zone

Porosity

Coral Metric

Bio Diversity

Surface Space

Design Variation

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Figure 8, Design ndings diagram illustrating optimal design outcomes. Green represents the most e ective design con gurations, yellow indicates moderate performance with potential for improvement, and red highlights the least favourable outcomes requiring signi cant revision.

Ocean

MATERIAL Clay is a material that is studied in geotechnical engineering due to its high plasticity, permeability, bearing capacity, and settlement characteristics. The theoretical formula is ((OH)4Si8Al4O20·NH2O nterlayer) and the theoretical composition without the interlayer material is SiO2, 66.7%; Al2O3, 28.3%; and H2O, 5%.

2KAlSi3O8 + 2CO2 + 11H2O —> Al2Si2O5(OH)4 + 2K+ + 4H4SiO4 + 2HCO3K-feldspar + carbon dioxide + water -> kaolin + potassium, silica and bicarbonate ions in solution From: C3S formation: 3CaO+SiO2→3CaO·SiO. C2S formation: 2CaO+SiO2→2CaO·SiO. BRAND - Feeney’s Clay (manufactured) from Walker Ceramics (company), due to historical signi cance established in Victoria, Australia 1885. Feeney’s is locally havant and manufactured from natural sustainable sources.

CLAY SELETION - TERRA COTTA KILN - The kiln is a high temperature oven designed to solidi es the clay by the ring process, in three stages: drying, oxidation and nishing (or soaking). Complex chemical and physical transformations will happen to the molecular level during those stages.

KILN SPECIFICATION - WARD Kiln (Australia) Electric 240 Volt-Internal Size 330 mm x 300 mm Firing temperature 1000*C for 6hrs.

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Figure 9, Illustration of structured geometric design based grid-based, demonstrating various spatial arrangements.

INSTRUCTION PROCESS The nal design parametric design optimised mathematical tiling principles composed from a grid 3x3 layout system base to allow scalability and modularity to remain consistent.

Cross-shaped formation with central axis in X, Y Z directions, connected to six spheres one at the end of each axis point.

CONSTRUCTION PROCESS The construction methodology prioritises capability, adaptability and ensuring exibility during deployment, to withstand hydrodynamic pressures and accommodate ecological variations. The parametric design framework ensures the uid dynamics, enabling e cient sediment transport, coral larval settlement, and the collection of fragmented coral propagules, thereby enhancing biodiversity potential (Brandes, 2020 ).

Prototypes are crafted using eco-friendly traditional clay techniques, aligning with sustainable practices emphasised in reef restoration research (RRAP, 2024 ).

Construction Method: Step 1. Make six spheres and three axis, Step 2. Assemble two spheres connected to single axis, Step 3. Make a total of three sets, Step 4. Join all three set at point zero of each axis.

6X 3X

Shaping Techniques: • Option 1: Hand-Carved Method Roll clay by hand into shapes. ◦ Connect parts as per diagrams using slip ◦ (Clay+ water mixture) as “glue” and score to join the pieces securely.

1X

Figure 10, Construction method diagram

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Option 3: Plaster Moulds (for Reproduction) Create a positive model of the design. ◦ Pour liquid plaster over the model to create a reusable mould. ◦ Once dry, use the mould to pour liquid clay (slip) into the mould, ◦ let it harden before removing it.

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Option 2: Pottery Wheel Create pots as round as possible, ◦ living small opening at top, Create cilinders ◦ Once semi dry, assemble parts using slip ◦ (Clay+ water mixture) as “glue” and score to join the pieces securely.

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TOP VIEW

MODULARITY EXPLORATION

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SIDE VIEW

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Figure 11, Four di erent modularity explorations focusing on spacial results.

MODULARITY The design of arti cial reefs (ARs) can be optimised through a modular approach that enhances scalability, ecological functionality, and adaptability across diverse marine environments. Implementing modularity allows for exible con gurations that can be customised to suit varying ecological and environmental conditions. This approach ensures that reef structures remain resilient to external stressors while providing suitable habitats for marine life.

The four key modularity principles integrated into AR design include: 1. Number of test models used on test con guration, ve.

2. Interlocking units are designed to t together seamlessly, forming structurally stable formations that can withstand strong hydrodynamic forces. Their modular nature allows for incremental expansion, making the reef adaptable to di erent spatial requirements and environmental conditions.

3. Cellular aggregation mimics the growth patterns of natural coral colonies by incorporating biomimetic porous frameworks. These modules feature hollow chambers or perforated surfaces, creating protected micro habitats for marine organisms while promoting water ow and nutrient exchange. This structure facilitates species settlement and provides shelter for juvenile sh and invertebrates.

4. Adaptive tessellations involve customisable geometric con gurations that can be arranged to optimise ecological performance. By adjusting the tessellated structures based on environmental factors such as sunlight exposure and sedimentation, the reef can better integrate into its surroundings and support diverse marine ecosystems.

5. Segregated surface modules focus on a compartmentalised composition that enhances marine organism attachment and coral recruitment. These modules consist of separated but interconnected units, mimicking natural reef formations and allowing for controlled ecological interactions.

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By integrating these four modular principles, the arti cial reef structure ensures functional adaptability, long-term ecological sustainability, and structural resilience, e ectively mimicking the complexity of natural coral reefs while supporting biodiversity and marine habitat restoration

FINAL MODEL The nal arti cial reef model was designed with transportability, structural integrity, and ecological functionality as primary considerations. Measuring 3000mm × 3000mm × 3000mm, this modular arti cial reef structure ensures ease of transportation and deployment while maintaining an optimal scale for marine habitat restoration.

To facilitate e cient transport and assembly, the structure is composed of interlocking modular units, which can be disassembled and reassembled on-site. These modules are crafted from marine-grade, eco-friendly materials, promoting coral recruitment and marine biodiversity.

Recent advancements in additive manufacturing have demonstrated the potential of materials such as cementitious composites and biogenic substrates, which enhance the ecological compatibility of arti cial reefs (Matus et al., 2024) . The lightweight yet durable construction enables easy handling and precise underwater positioning, ensuring seamless integration into various marine environments.

The model integrates biomimetic cellular aggregation, adaptive tessellations, and segmented surface modules, which enhance water ow dynamics, nutrient exchange, and organism attachment. Studies on hydrodynamics-driven arti cial reef designs have shown that optimising reef structure for uid interaction can signi cantly in uence marine biodiversity recruitment and long-term reef stability (Silva, 2022) . Additionally, the porous design fosters habitat creation, allowing for colonisation by a diverse range of marine species, while also supporting long-term reef development (Smith, Cook, & Molinaro, 2021) .

By balancing scalability, ecological e ciency, and logistical feasibility, the nal model presents a highly adaptable solution for arti cial reef implementation. This approach aligns with contemporary marine restoration strategies, ensuring long-term success in biodiversity conservation and habitat restoration (Kikuchi et al., 2024) .

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Figure 12, Final model.

CONCLUSION This study explored the optimisation of arti cial reef structures through a multidisciplinary design approach that integrates architectural principles with marine habitat restoration strategies. In response to the rst research question: How can an architectural arti cial reef structure, guided by design principles, enhance marine habitat and support biodiversity?The ndings indicate that modular, biomimetic, and hydrodynamical optimised reef structures signi cantly improve ecological integration. The research highlights how arti cial reefs can mimic natural coral reef habitats, increasing species recruitment and habitat complexity (Matus et al., 2024).

For the second research question: How can clay be used as a sustainable material for arti cial reef prototypes? The study con rms that clay's high durability, porosity, and eco-compatibility make it a viable material for coral settlement and marine biodiversity enhancement. Experimental results and case studies demonstrate that textured ceramic surfaces promote coral adhesion, while modular clay-based structures o er scalability and adaptability in reef restoration e orts (Trilsbeck et al., 2019) .

Overall, this research contributes to the eld of marine restoration and ecological architecture by providing a replicable model for designing sustainable arti cial reefs. Future research should focus on long-term ecological monitoring, exploring how "Living Architecture" driven parametric modelling and biodegradable materials can further optimise and explored.

AKCKNOWLEGMENT I respectfully acknowledge the Traditional Custodians of the land and sea on which this research was conducted, and I pay my respects to Elders past, present, and emerging. Their deep connection to Country and knowledge of marine ecosystems inspire ongoing e orts toward environmental stewardship and sustainable practices.

THANK YOU

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I extend my sincere gratitude to Gri th University and the Gri th Sciences Summer Scholarships program for supporting this research. Special thanks to Yvette Baxter, Executive Support O cer, Research, Gri th Sciences, for her invaluable assistance. I also deeply appreciate the guidance and expertise of Dr. Despina Linaraki, Lecturer in Architecture, Design, and Technology, and Dr. Vincent Raoult, Senior Lecturer in Marine Ecology, from the School of Environment and Science, Gri th Sciences. Their insights and mentorship have been instrumental in shaping this study and advancing my understanding of sustainable arti cial reef design.

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IMAGE REFERENCES Figure 1. The Coral Greenhouse, Museum of Underwater Art (MOUA), Australia.

Figure 2. Reef Tiles – The University of Hong Kong.

Figure 3. Modular Arti cial Reef Structure (MARS) – Reef Design Lab. Figure 4. Design strategy diagram illustrating functional applications of arti cial reefs.

Figure 5. Site Location – John Brewer Reef, Townsville, Australia.

Figure 6. Physical prototype models showcasing modularity concepts.

Figure 7. The best-selected model designs with optimised parameters.

Figure 8. Design ndings diagram illustrating optimal design con gurations.

Figure 9. Geometric spatial arrangements for modular reef structures.

Figure 10.Construction method diagram.

Figure 11. Modularity exploration models in top and side views.

Figure 12. Final model.

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