A nine-year scientific study by the Madeira Oceanic Observatory has concluded that artificial reefs created in Madeira and Porto Santo by sinking ships contribute to marine biodiversity but do not replicate the ecological functions of natural reefs.
Researcher Pedro Neves explained that while the species present are similar in some cases, the ecological functions are not fully reproduced. Artificial reefs, such as those created from the corvettes Afonso Cerqueira and General Pereira d'Eça, are important for tourism and the local economy but should not be seen as substitutes for natural reefs.
In Madeira, the differences between natural and artificial reefs were less pronounced, with the artificial ones acting as an extension of existing habitats. In Porto Santo, the differences were more evident, with the artificial reef showing high functional diversity, especially compared to natural reefs under fishing pressure. Fifty-two fish species were recorded, including predators and conservation-important species like grouper and wreckfish.
The study highlights the need to continue protecting natural habitats and creating protected area mosaics with diverse seabed types to comprehensively preserve regional biodiversity.
