MARINE BIODIVERSITY REGENERATION

The proposed project aims to enhance marine biodiversity in the Forum Bathing Area (Zona de Baños del Fórum) in Barcelona by creating and installing small reefs and structures—both natural and artificial—that support the presence, establishment, and reproduction of various species.​

Objective

The primary goal is to increase and maintain the richness and biodiversity of marine life in this area, with the intention of designating it as a protected coastal zone within Barcelona.​

Methodology

The intervention will involve constructing and installing three types of reefs and structures of varying sizes. These will be made primarily from natural materials (such as stones and branches), though artificial materials will also be used, ensuring they do not alter or pollute the marine environment.​

Specifically, the following structures will be developed, designed according to the target species:​

• Structures with cavities of different sizes to serve as hiding and breeding areas for species like blennies, gobies, tripterygions, octopuses, among others.​

• Structures with ropes intended to facilitate the attachment and establishment of protected species such as seahorses (Hippocampus hippocampus and Hippocampus guttulatus).​

• Structures with natural logs and branches aimed at supporting the reproductive cycle of the cuttlefish (Sepia officinalis).​

Once the structures and small reefs are installed, continuous monitoring will be conducted over time to assess their viability and ecological functionality.​

This initiative aligns with broader efforts to restore and enhance marine ecosystems in urban coastal areas. For instance, studies have revealed surprising levels of marine biodiversity in the artificial beach of the Barcelona Forum, identifying over 500 marine species despite various anthropogenic impacts.