- SeaKeepers' Vessel DISCOVERY II
ORAI Artificial Reef Monitoring
- March 22, 2026
- Hollywood, Florida
Project Overview
Artificial reefs are increasingly deployed as tools to enhance marine biodiversity, restore degraded habitats, and relieve pressure on natural reef systems. To understand their ecological value and effectiveness, regular monitoring is essential, particularly in the early stages after deployment when colonization begins. This research initiative focuses on evaluating the biological and structural development of newly installed artificial reef modules off the coast of Hollywood, Florida. By comparing these artificial sites to nearby natural reefs, researchers aim to assess how well these structures replicate natural habitat functions and support marine life. This ongoing monitoring contributes to regional reef restoration goals and provides data to inform best practices for future artificial reef design and implementation.
Application
This study aims to assess the biological and structural development of ORAI’s artificial reefs and compare them with natural reef systems to evaluate ecological performance. Photogrammetry surveys of reef modules provide high-resolution data to generate 3D models, allowing researchers to monitor changes in habitat complexity and reef growth over time.
In addition, direct measurements of each module support assessments of structural integrity and consistency across deployments. Together, these data contribute to evaluating the effectiveness of artificial reef designs and will help inform future deployment strategies, supporting broader regional goals in reef restoration and habitat enhancement in South Florida waters.
Expedition Summary
On March 22, 2026, SeaKeepers supported a team of researchers from Ocean Rescue Alliance International in conducting a monitoring survey of nearshore artificial reef sites aboard SeaKeepers’ vessel DISCOVERY II.
During the expedition, researchers conducted photogrammetry surveys of all artificial reef modules at Sites 3 and 4, capturing detailed imagery to support 3D modeling and long-term monitoring of reef development.
In addition, the team collected physical measurements of each module at both sites, contributing to ongoing assessments of structural integrity and habitat complexity.
Location
Hollywood, Florida
Duration of Project
ORAI initiated the Guardians of the Reef project in late 2022. These sites were installed May 22-24, 2025 and since then monitoring operations have been ongoing.
Leadership
Research Team
- Rachel Holic
- Ariana Boland
- Michelle Baptist
- Captain Aubri Keith
