Monitoring Fish Populations on the 3D Reefs
Research and Development
In addition to monitoring fixed species, the AMPN conducts fish population surveys twice a year on and around the 3D-printed artificial reefs.
Designed to mimic natural habitats and made from environmentally friendly materials, these innovative structures aim to promote marine biodiversity within the Larvotto Marine Protected Area (MPA).
Since their immersion, marine biologists from Thalassa Marine Research and Aquanaute Expertise have been monitoring the fish communities that colonize them. Using standardized protocols, divers identify observed species, assess their abundance, and measure the size of encountered individuals.
GoPro cameras and non-baited BRUVS devices complement this monitoring by allowing observation of the most discreet or shy species in the absence of divers.
The first monitoring campaign of 2026 has just concluded. A second will be carried out in September to continue evaluating the effectiveness of these next-generation reefs.
Program supported by the Prince Albert II of Monaco Foundation.
Photo credit : Stéphane Jamme - Aquanaute Expertise.
