Structure in the Sea

Structure in the Sea: The Science, Technology and Effects of Purpose-Built Reefs and Related Surfaces provides a review of the history, development, status and emerging trends in research, technology and applications of artificial reef habitats and sea floor structures. The book helps readers understand, utilize and add to the research of modern reef deployment efforts, presenting a guide to equip stakeholders requiring technical foundations and best practices. Topics include materials, designs and construction methods, along with the ecology of these structures, including key aspects of the life history of plants and animals associated with artificial reefs.

Rigorous research addressing ecological, economic and engineering questions, coupled with the innovative deployment of structures worldwide by diverse stakeholders, have created a synergy that makes the book a valuable synthesis and analysis for this growing subject. Thus, its broad audience includes marine (coastal and ocean) environmental sciences, including aquatic ecologists, those working in ocean sustainability and conservation, benthic habitat and coral reef restoration practitioners, and more.

• Presents a new perspective on how we might save natural wonders under threat
• Provides a representation of reefs, showing the economic and humanitarian value of these natural ecosystems
• Unlocks potentials for solutions for conservation by including global case studies

William Seaman is Professor Emeritus at the University of Florida and a founding member of its Fisheries and Aquatic Sciences program. Dr. Seaman’s research and technology transfer emphasis on coastal fishes, habitats and fisheries has contributed to developing the scientific basis for design of artificial reefs, their responsible use in fisheries and ecosystem management, and quantitative evaluation of their performance, worldwide. He has edited two widely used multi-disciplinary books on artificial habitats. He has advised several countries on artificial reef science and technology, most recently addressing mitigation strategies in Monaco (2018). Seaman was an invited organizer/lecturer for the European Union course “Design and Management of Artificial Reefs for Fisheries” and has been an invited speaker at nine international conferences since 2000. Seaman is an elected Fellow of the American Institute of Fisheries Research Biologists, and a Certified Fisheries Scientist. He has held sabbatical appointments at the University of Hawaii and the Oceanographic Museum of Monaco.