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report:soa [2026/04/12 23:00] – [2.3 Products] team4report:soa [2026/04/23 11:06] (current) – [2.5.2 Sensor placements] team4
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 ===== 2. Background and Related Work ===== ===== 2. Background and Related Work =====
-//This chapter provides the reader with the relevant technical-scientific background as well as existing related products and research, also known as the state of the art, in the field(s) of the project.//+
  
  
  
 ==== 2.1 Introduction ==== ==== 2.1 Introduction ====
-This chapter establishes the technical and scientific foundation for the MARIS HABITATS project by situating it within the broader landscape of underwater monitoring and artificial reef design. While the field of marine biology has long utilized static structures for habitat restoration, the integration of real-time IoT (Internet of Things) capabilities remains a significant hurdle due to high costs and technical complexity.+This chapter establishes the technical and scientific foundation for the MARIS HABITATS project by situating it within the broader landscape of underwater monitoring and artificial reef design. While the field of marine biology has long utilized static structures for habitat restoration, the integration of real-time Internet of Things (IoT) capabilities remains a significant hurdle due to high costs and technical complexity.
  
-By analyzing essential water quality parameters—such as pH, temperature, and turbidity—and the embedded systems required to track them, we identify the specific technical gaps that our modular approach aims to fill. This review serves not only as a state-of-the-art summary but as a justification for a cost-effective, sensor-integrated platform that moves beyond traditional, "passive" artificial reefs.+By analyzing essential water quality parameters —such as pH, temperature, and turbidity— through the embedded systems required to track them, the specific technical gaps that the modular approach aims to fill can be indentified. This review serves not only as a state-of-the-art summary but as a justification for a cost-effective, sensor-integrated platform that moves beyond traditional, "passive" artificial reefs.
  
 ==== 2.2 Concepts ==== ==== 2.2 Concepts ====
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 A different method is the creation of Bio-Rock or electric reefs. These reefs consist of metal structures through which a small electrical current is passed. This current causes minerals from seawater to deposit onto the structure, gradually forming a limestone-like coating. This process helps corals grow much faster than under normal conditions, and fish rapidly colonize these artificial reefs. This technique is known as Bio-Rock technology [(BioRocks)]. A different method is the creation of Bio-Rock or electric reefs. These reefs consist of metal structures through which a small electrical current is passed. This current causes minerals from seawater to deposit onto the structure, gradually forming a limestone-like coating. This process helps corals grow much faster than under normal conditions, and fish rapidly colonize these artificial reefs. This technique is known as Bio-Rock technology [(BioRocks)].
  
-Artificial habitats can also be designed as modular “fish cities.” These structures include holes of different sizes so that multiple fish species can use them for shelter. Vertical elements are often incorporated to mimic natural reef cliffs, and the modules can be interconnected to create more complex ecosystems that support a greater diversity of marine life [(rrreefs)].+Artificial habitats can also be designed as modular “fish cities”. These structures include holes of different sizes so that multiple fish species can use them for shelter. Vertical elements are often incorporated to mimic natural reef cliffs, and the modules can be interconnected to create more complex ecosystems that support a greater diversity of marine life [(rrreefs)].
  
 Another concept is the development of living seawalls. These are harbor walls or seawalls designed with textured panels and cavities so that marine organisms can attach to them and live on them. Instead of smooth concrete surfaces that support little life, these modified structures create habitats for algae, small invertebrates, and fish [(Living seawalls)]. Another concept is the development of living seawalls. These are harbor walls or seawalls designed with textured panels and cavities so that marine organisms can attach to them and live on them. Instead of smooth concrete surfaces that support little life, these modified structures create habitats for algae, small invertebrates, and fish [(Living seawalls)].
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 +==== 2.3 Comparative Analysis ====
  
 +The selected solutions are evaluated based on criteria such as monitoring capability, structural complexity, sustainability, durability, and ecological performance.
  
-==== 2.3 Products ====+ 
 +<table tab:comparison> 
 +<caption> Comparative overview of existing artificial reef solutions and the proposed Maris Habitats system </caption> 
 + 
 +^ Criteria ^ MEITEC ^ ECOncrete ^ IntelliReefs ^ Maris Habitats ^ 
 +| Real-time monitoring | No | No | No | Yes | 
 +| Integrated sensors | Limited | No | No | Yes | 
 +| Data collection system | Not specified | No | Not specified | Yes | 
 +| Primary focus | Structural reef | Eco-concrete material | Modular reef design | Integrated habitat and monitoring system | 
 +| Material type | Conventional concrete | Eco-enhanced concrete | Alternative materials / modular units | Eco-concrete and reinforced structure | 
 +| Ecological enhancement | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | 
 +| Structural complexity | Moderate | Moderate | High | Moderate | 
 +| Modularity | Limited | Moderate | High | Moderate | 
 +| Scalability | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | 
 +| Maintenance approach | Diver-based | Passive structure | Not specified | Diver-based maintenance | 
 +| Data-driven decision support | No | No | No | Yes | 
 +</table> 
 + 
 +The comparison presented in Table {{ref>tab:comparison}} is based on publicly available information from product descriptions and related documentation. In cases where information was not clearly specified, this is indicated accordingly. 
 + 
 +As shown in Table {{ref>tab:comparison}}, existing solutions mainly focus on structural design and ecological enhancement.  
 +However, based on the available information, these solutions generally do not include integrated monitoring systems or continuous data collection capabilities. In contrast, the proposed Maris Habitats system combines habitat construction with environmental monitoring, enabling continuous data collection and supporting data-driven decision-making. 
 + 
 + 
 +==== 2.4 Companies==== 
 + 
 +This section presents existing solutions related to artificial reef systems and marine infrastructure. The purpose of this analysis is to understand how current solutions are designed and what features they provide. It also helps to identify limitations that can be considered in the development of the proposed system.
  
 **MEITEC** **MEITEC**
  
-MEITEC is a company that designs and builds artificial reef structures for marine environments, mainly to support and improve fishery resources [(MEITEC)]. Their products are usually made from strong and durable concrete, which helps the structures stay stable on the seabed even when they are exposed to waves and ocean currents. These reef structures create spaces where marine species can hide, live, and reproduce, which can lead to an increase in fish populations over time.+MEITEC is a company that develops artificial reef structures for marine environments [(MEITEC)]. These structures are designed to be placed on the seabed and are intended to support marine ecosystems.
  
-In some cases, MEITEC also includes simple measuring devices, such as flow meters and water temperature sensors. However, these devices seem to be used separately rather than as part of a connected system. There is no clear indication that the system can collect or process data continuously, and advanced features such as real-time monitoring are not described [(MEITEC)].+The structures are typically made from concrete materials, which provide mechanical strength and allow the system to remain stable under ocean conditions. This type of structure is commonly used in artificial reef applications because it can withstand external forces such as currents and waves.
  
-Figure {{ref>fig:MEITEC}} presents the flow meter and water temperature meter.+The design of these structures provides physical spaces where marine organisms can attach, hide, and interact. These features can contribute to the formation of habitats over time. 
 + 
 +In some cases, additional devices such as flow meters or temperature sensors may be used (see Figure {{ref>fig:MEITEC}}). These devices can provide basic environmental information. However, based on the available information, there is no clear indication that these systems include fully integrated or continuous environmental monitoring capabilities. 
 + 
 +This suggests that the main focus of the system is on structural design and habitat creation, while the integration of monitoring functions is limited.
  
 <WRAP centeralign> <WRAP centeralign>
 <figure fig:MEITEC> <figure fig:MEITEC>
-<WRAP half column> +<WRAP center> 
-{{:report:메이텍.jpg?nolink&400|}} +| {{ :report:메이텍.jpg?nolink&600 }} | {{ :report:메이텍2.jpg?nolink&600 }} |
-</WRAP> +
-<WRAP half column> +
-{{:report:메이텍2.jpg?nolink&400|}}+
 </WRAP> </WRAP>
-<caption> MEITEC Flow meter and water temperature meter </caption>+<caption> 
 +Installation of a flow meter and water temperature sensor in an underwater environment [(MEITEC)] 
 +</caption>
 </figure> </figure>
 </WRAP> </WRAP>
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 **ECOncrete** **ECOncrete**
  
-ECOncrete develops special types of concrete that are designed to be more environmentally friendly and better suited for marine life [(ECOncrete)]. Instead of focusing only on strength, their technology also considers how the material interacts with the surrounding ecosystem. For example, they adjust the chemical composition and surface texture of the concrete so that it becomes easier for marine organisms to attach and grow. These solutions are commonly used in coastal structures such as seawalls and breakwaters, where they help support marine life while still performing their structural role.+ECOncrete develops concrete solutions that are designed to improve the interaction between marine infrastructure and the surrounding ecosystem [(ECOncrete)].
  
-Even though ECOncrete provides clear ecological benefits, their systems mainly act as fixed structures. They help marine life grow, but they do not include any built-in sensors or systems that can track environmental conditions. As a result, there is no real-time monitoring or data collection integrated into their designs [(ECOncrete)]. +The material is modified in terms of surface texture and composition in order to support the attachment of marine organisms. These modifications aim to create conditions that are more suitable for biological growth compared to traditional concrete. 
 + 
 +Such solutions are applied in coastal and marine infrastructure, including structures such as seawalls and shoreline protection systems. In these applications, the structures maintain their engineering function while also providing ecological benefits. 
 + 
 +Marine organisms can attach and grow on the surface of these structures over time, as shown in Figure {{ref>fig:ECOncrete}}. 
 + 
 +However, these systems mainly act as passive structures. They are designed to support marine life, but they do not actively collect environmental data. Based on the available descriptions, there is no clear indication of integrated sensing or continuous monitoring within the structure.
  
 <WRAP centeralign> <WRAP centeralign>
 <figure fig:ECOncrete> <figure fig:ECOncrete>
-{{ :report:에콘크리트.webp |}} +{{ :report:slider3.b197b0.webp }} 
-<caption> ECOncrete Armor Block units </caption>+<caption> 
 +Eco-concrete coastal structure showing marine organism growth on its surface in a biodiversity enhancement project [(ECOncrete)] 
 +</caption>
 </figure> </figure>
 </WRAP> </WRAP>
- 
  
 **IntelliReefs** **IntelliReefs**
  
-The IntelliReefs project, developed by the Reef Life Foundation, focuses on creating modular reef systems that do not rely on traditional concrete materials [(IntelliReefs)]. Instead, they use alternative materials that are more environmentally friendly and suitable for marine ecosystems. One of the main advantages of this system is its modular design, which allows different pieces to be combined in flexible ways. This makes it possible to create more complex structures that can better match different underwater environments.+IntelliReefs is a project that focuses on developing artificial reef systems using alternative design approaches [(IntelliReefs)]. 
 + 
 +The project explores different structural configurations and materials in order to improve ecological performance and reduce environmental impact compared to traditional reef systems. 
 + 
 +The design of the structures aims to provide suitable habitats for marine organisms by creating complex geometries and sheltered spaces, as shown in Figure {{ref>fig:IntelliReefs}}. 
 + 
 +These modular structures form interconnected reef systems that can support diverse marine habitats.
  
-Although IntelliReefs offers flexibility and uses sustainable materials, the available information does not show that the system includes any type of sensor or monitoring technology. Similar to the other solutions, it focuses mainly on providing habitat, without offering tools for real-time environmental data collection or analysis [(IntelliReefs)].+However, based on the available information, the system mainly focuses on structural and ecological aspects. There is no clear indication of integrated sensing technologies or continuous environmental monitoring capabilities.
  
 +This suggests that, while IntelliReefs contributes to improved reef design, the integration of data collection and monitoring functions remains limited.
  
 <WRAP centeralign> <WRAP centeralign>
 <figure fig:IntelliReefs> <figure fig:IntelliReefs>
-{{ :report:intellireef.png?nolink&600 |}} +{{ :report:intellireefs.png?nolink&600 |}} 
-<caption> IntelliReefs Project </caption>+<caption> 
 +Modular artificial reef system with complex geometry designed to create diverse marine habitats [(IntelliReefs)] 
 +</caption>
 </figure> </figure>
 </WRAP> </WRAP>
  
  
-==== 2.4 Projects ==== 
-For our project involving a marine habitat at a maximum depth of 50 m off the Portuguese coast, the materials must withstand a pressure of approximately 5 bar while fostering biological growth and protecting sensitive sensors. To ensure the highest level of efficiency and environmental compatibility, we have analyzed various materials used in international restoration efforts. 
  
-The selection of materials and the structural design of artificial habitats are fundamental to ensuring both environmental compatibility and long-term viability. For this project, concrete has been identified as the primary material due to its exceptional durability and its proven track record in underwater construction. Its capacity to provide structural integrity against significant environmental stressors—such as salinity, strong currents, and wave action—makes it the industry standard for creating resilient marine foundations. While the chemical properties of concrete, particularly its initial pH levels, have historically been a point of debate, recent research has shifted the focus toward a more nuanced understanding of its behavior in open marine environments [(KNOESTER2024)]. 
  
-Studies indicate that the high alkalinity of newly submerged concrete (typically between 12–14) is rapidly diluted by seawater, resulting in no significant long-term detriment to coral growth or benthic colonization [(KNOESTER2024)]. This suggests that ecological success depends less on extended curing periods or pH-neutral mixtures and more on the physical attributes of the habitat. Consequently, the following sections will detail how our project prioritizes structural complexity, substrate durability, and hydrodynamic stability [(NewHeaven2016)]. By optimizing the weight-to-complexity ratio and ensuring low water absorption, we can guarantee that these structures remain stationary during extreme weather events while providing the necessary niches for biodiversity to thrive [(KNOESTER2024)].+==== 2.5 Materials ==== 
 +For this project involving a marine habitat at a maximum depth of 50 m off the Portuguese coast, the materials must withstand a pressure of approximately 5 bar while fostering biological growth and protecting sensitive sensors. To ensure the highest level of efficiency and environmental compatibility, various materials used in international restoration efforts has been analyzed. 
 + 
 +The selection of materials and the structural design of artificial habitats are fundamental to ensuring both environmental compatibility and long-term viability. For this project, concrete has been identified as the primary material due to its exceptional durability and its proven track record in underwater construction. Its capacity to provide structural integrity against significant environmental stressors—such as salinity, strong currents, and wave action—makes it the industry standard for creating resilient marine foundations. While the chemical properties of concrete, particularly its initial pH levels, have historically been a point of debate, recent research has shifted the focus toward a more nuanced understanding of its behavior in open marine environments [(KNOESTER2024)].
  
-Based on the research and articles reviewed, the following table evaluates different material options—ranging from traditional foundations to innovative biocompatible substrates—from which we will select the most suitable components for our specific implementation: +Studies indicate that the high alkalinity of newly submerged concrete (typically between 12–14) is rapidly diluted by seawater, resulting in no significant long-term detriment to coral growth or benthic colonization [(KNOESTER2024)]. This suggests that ecological success depends less on extended curing periods or pH-neutral mixtures and more on the physical attributes of the habitat. Consequently, the following sections will detail how this project prioritizes structural complexity, substrate durability, and hydrodynamic stability [(NewHeaven2016)]. By optimizing the weight-to-complexity ratio and ensuring low water absorption, it can be guaranteed that these structures remain stationary during extreme weather events while providing the necessary niches for biodiversity to thrive [(KNOESTER2024)].
-=== 2.4.1. Structural Materials ===+
  
 +Based on the research and articles reviewed, the following subsection evaluates different material options—ranging from traditional foundations to innovative biocompatible substrates—from which the selection for the most suitable components will be done for this specific implementation.
 +=== 2.5.1. Structural Materials ===
 **A. Bacterial (Self-healing) High-Strength Concrete (HSC)** **A. Bacterial (Self-healing) High-Strength Concrete (HSC)**
 This material incorporates bacterial spores, specifically *Bacillus sphaericus* (strain ATCC 14577), which remain dormant until a crack occurs. Water ingress activates the bacteria, which then precipitate calcium carbonate to seal the crack [(ALYAARI2026)]. This material incorporates bacterial spores, specifically *Bacillus sphaericus* (strain ATCC 14577), which remain dormant until a crack occurs. Water ingress activates the bacteria, which then precipitate calcium carbonate to seal the crack [(ALYAARI2026)].
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 **E. Recycled Glass (Partial Aggregate Replacement)** **E. Recycled Glass (Partial Aggregate Replacement)**
-Crushed waste glass used to replace up to 30% of fine aggregates in the concrete mix [(DAAROL2026)].+Crushed waste glass used to replace up to 30 % of fine aggregates in the concrete mix [(DAAROL2026)].
   * **Pros:** Improves **chemical resistance** and reduces water absorption [(DAAROL2026)]. It offers an eco-friendly way to utilize waste while maintaining sufficient compressive strength for marine applications [(DAAROL2026)].   * **Pros:** Improves **chemical resistance** and reduces water absorption [(DAAROL2026)]. It offers an eco-friendly way to utilize waste while maintaining sufficient compressive strength for marine applications [(DAAROL2026)].
-  * **Cons:** Replacing more than 30% of aggregate leads to a **significant reduction in compressive strength** [(DAAROL2026)].+  * **Cons:** Replacing more than 30 % of aggregate leads to a **significant reduction in compressive strength** [(DAAROL2026)].
   * **Price:** Estimated at **90 €/m<sup>3</sup> – 140 €/m<sup>3</sup>**.   * **Price:** Estimated at **90 €/m<sup>3</sup> – 140 €/m<sup>3</sup>**.
 +
  
 **F. Biorock (Mineral Accretion)** **F. Biorock (Mineral Accretion)**
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   * **Price:** Base infrastructure **120 €/m<sup>3</sup> – 160 €/m<sup>3</sup>** (excluding electrical components).   * **Price:** Base infrastructure **120 €/m<sup>3</sup> – 160 €/m<sup>3</sup>** (excluding electrical components).
  
----+== 2.5.1.1 Summary Table ==
  
-== 2.4.1.1 Summary Table ==+The previous subsection regarding the materials evaluated for the project, is sumarized in Table {{ref>tab:summary}}.
  
-<color #ed1c24>Table {{ref>tab:summary}} ...</color>+<WRAP>
 <table tab:summary> <table tab:summary>
-<caption><color #ed1c24>Add caption</color></caption> +<caption> Summary table for materials evaluated </caption> 
-| Material | Primary Requisite Met | Pros | Cons | Price (est. / $m^3$) | +| Material | Primary Requisite Met | Pros | Cons | Estimated Price / m<sup>3</sup> | 
-| **Bacterial HSC** | Longevity/Pressure | Autonomous repair; 96% watertight | High complexity | €180–€260 | +| **Bacterial HSC** | Longevity/Pressure | Autonomous repair; 96 % watertight | High complexity | 180–260 € | 
-| **Basalt Reinforcement** | Corrosion Resistance | Non-corrosive; volcanic origin | Lower flexural peak | €160–€220 | +| **Basalt Reinforcement** | Corrosion Resistance | Non-corrosive; volcanic origin | Lower flexural peak | 160–220 € | 
-| **ECOncrete®** | Sea-life Friendly | Neutral pH; bioprotection | Specific mix needs | €140–€180 | +| **ECOncrete®** | Sea-life Friendly | Neutral pH; bioprotection | Specific mix needs | 140–180 € | 
-| **Recycled Glass** | Sustainability | Increased chemical resistance | Strength loss >30% | €90–€140 | +| **Recycled Glass** | Sustainability | Increased chemical resistance | Strength loss > <color #ed1c24>30%</color> | 90–140 € | 
-| **Biorock** | Life Promotion | 4:1 growth; self-repairing  | Power dependent | €120–€160 |+| **Biorock** | Life Promotion | 4:1 growth; self-repairing  | Power dependent | 120–160 €|
 </table> </table>
 +</WRAP>
 +
 +
 +== 2.5.1.2 Materials for Prototype vs. Final ==
 +
  
-==  2.4.1.2 Materials for Prototype vs. Final == 
 Here we have another issue, since we have to present a prototype where it has to be functional and pass some test previously mentioned, we need to select a material with similar characteristics to the actual model, in order to be as close as possible. But also that is easy to get and handle since we are gonna be the ones using it.  Here we have another issue, since we have to present a prototype where it has to be functional and pass some test previously mentioned, we need to select a material with similar characteristics to the actual model, in order to be as close as possible. But also that is easy to get and handle since we are gonna be the ones using it. 
  
-__//**TO BE CHECKED**//__+<color #6aa84f>__//**TO BE CHECKED WHEN THE PROTOTYPE HAS TO BE DONE**//__</color>
  
 - Option 1 : Basalt fabric-reinforced is attached to abandoned concrete or industrial waste. We need to check the pH level is neutral this process. - Option 1 : Basalt fabric-reinforced is attached to abandoned concrete or industrial waste. We need to check the pH level is neutral this process.
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   * **cons** There are size limitations depending on the oven and it is different from the model of actual project so not sure if it will approve.   * **cons** There are size limitations depending on the oven and it is different from the model of actual project so not sure if it will approve.
  
-=== 2.4.2 Sensor placements === +=== 2.5.2 Sensor placements === 
-Designing a successful marine habitat involves a delicate technical paradox. On one hand, the project’s primary objective is to encourage biological colonization and the growth of marine life; on the other, the integrated sensors require direct, unobstructed contact with seawater to maintain accuracy. This necessity creates a significant challenge, as the very "bio-friendly" environment we aim to foster can lead to marine biofouling on sensitive equipment, which critically compromises data reliability and sensor sensitivity [(SAHOO2025)].+Designing a successful marine habitat involves a delicate technical paradox. On one hand, the project’s primary objective is to encourage biological colonization and the growth of marine life; on the other, the integrated sensors require direct, unobstructed contact with seawater to maintain accuracy. This necessity creates a significant challenge, as the very "bio-friendly" environment the team aims to foster can lead to marine biofouling on sensitive equipment, which critically compromises data reliability and sensor sensitivity [(SAHOO2025)].
  
-To resolve this conflict, our strategy focuses on three integrated design pillars. First, we must carefully select housing materials that support structural life while shielding internal components. Second, we are evaluating specialized anti-fouling coatings that can prevent accumulation on sensor windows without leaching harmful chemicals into the surrounding habitat. Finally, the spatial distribution of the sensors must be strategically planned to allow for clear measurements while minimizing their exposure to rapid biological growth. This balanced approach ensures that our ecological goals do not come at the expense of long-term monitoring precision.+To resolve this conflict, our strategy focuses on three integrated design pillars. First, a carefully selection of housing materials that support structural life while shielding internal components must  be done. Second, evaluating specialized anti-fouling coatings that can prevent accumulation on sensor windows without leaching harmful chemicals into the surrounding habitat. Finally, the spatial distribution of the sensors must be strategically planned to allow for clear measurements while minimizing their exposure to rapid biological growth. This balanced approach ensures that our ecological goals do not come at the expense of long-term monitoring precision.
  
  
-== 2.4.2.1 Materials for Housing ==+== 2.5.2.1 Materials for Housing ==
 **Titanium alloy (TC4)** or **316 L stainless steel** are recommended for pressure resistance and durability [(SAHOO2025)]. For a 200 m depth, **Titanium** is preferred for long-term corrosion resistance [(evologics)]. **Titanium alloy (TC4)** or **316 L stainless steel** are recommended for pressure resistance and durability [(SAHOO2025)]. For a 200 m depth, **Titanium** is preferred for long-term corrosion resistance [(evologics)].
  
-== 2.4.2.2 Antifouling Coatings ==+== 2.5.2.2 Antifouling Coatings ==
     *   **PDMS (Polydimethylsiloxane):** A non-toxic, "fouling-release" coating that reduces the adhesion of algae and barnacles [(SAHOO2025)].     *   **PDMS (Polydimethylsiloxane):** A non-toxic, "fouling-release" coating that reduces the adhesion of algae and barnacles [(SAHOO2025)].
     *   **CPT (Camptothecin)-based Paint:** A natural compound that has shown virtually no macrofouling after nine months of immersion [(SAHOO2025)].     *   **CPT (Camptothecin)-based Paint:** A natural compound that has shown virtually no macrofouling after nine months of immersion [(SAHOO2025)].
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-=== 2.4.3 Biologic and geographical analysis ===+=== 2.5.3 Biologic and geographical analysis ===
  
 **Fish structure** **Fish structure**
  
-Fish populations are generally associated with habitats that exhibit high structural complexity and spatial heterogeneity. Research suggests that complex environments provide essential ecological resources necessary for survival, including food availability, shelter from predators, and suitable areas for reproduction [(Graham2013)]. Structural features such as crevices, cavities, and irregular surfaces may create microhabitats that support a greater diversity of marine organisms and increase the overall ecological value of reef systems [(Graham2013)]. +Fish populations are generally associated with habitats that exhibit high structural complexity and spatial heterogeneity [(Graham2013)]. Research suggests that complex environments provide essential ecological resources necessary for survival, including food availability, shelter from predators, and suitable areas for reproduction. Structural features such as crevices, cavities, and irregular surfaces may create microhabitats that support a greater diversity of marine organisms and increase the overall ecological value of reef systems. 
  
-Artificial and natural reefs typically contain irregularities and indentations that form small shelters or “nooks”, which can serve as refuge areas for fish and other marine organisms [(Graham2013)]. These structural features are believed to reduce predation risk and provide protected spaces where fish can rest or reproduce. +Artificial and natural reefs typically contain irregularities and indentations that form small shelters or “nooks”, which can serve as refuge areas for fish and other marine organisms. These structural features are believed to reduce predation risk and provide protected spaces where fish can rest or reproduce. 
  
-Studies also indicate that fish communities tend to perform better in connected habitat mosaics rather than isolated structures [(Graham2013)]. Networks of habitats may facilitate movement, feeding opportunities, and ecological interactions between species, which can contribute to more stable and diverse marine ecosystems [(Graham2013)]. +Studies also indicate that fish communities tend to perform better in connected habitat mosaics rather than isolated structures [(Graham2013)]. Networks of habitats may facilitate movement, feeding opportunities, and ecological interactions between species, which can contribute to more stable and diverse marine ecosystems. 
  
 **Location** **Location**
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 The location of artificial reefs plays a key role in determining their effectiveness. The chosen site should encourage marine life to settle while avoiding interference with human activities such as shipping routes or commercial fishing areas. Water depth is another important consideration. Reefs placed too deep may not receive enough sunlight to support the growth of marine plants like algae, whereas reefs that are too shallow can be more vulnerable to damage from storms or human activity [(PHAROS2024)].   The location of artificial reefs plays a key role in determining their effectiveness. The chosen site should encourage marine life to settle while avoiding interference with human activities such as shipping routes or commercial fishing areas. Water depth is another important consideration. Reefs placed too deep may not receive enough sunlight to support the growth of marine plants like algae, whereas reefs that are too shallow can be more vulnerable to damage from storms or human activity [(PHAROS2024)].  
  
-Most of the Artificial reef projects are placed at the depth of 10-30m but it all depends on which species and what type of marine life you are aiming the reefs for (see table {{ref>tab_label1}}).  +Most of the artificial reef projects are placed at the depth of 30 M but it all depends on which species and what type of marine life are the reefs intended for (see Table {{ref>tab_label1}}).  
  
- 
- 
- 
-  
-==== 2.5 Comparative Analysis ==== 
- 
-The selected solutions were evaluated based on criteria such as cost, monitoring capability, structural complexity, sustainability, durability, and ecological performance. 
- 
-<table tab_label1> 
-<caption> State of the art comparative analysis </caption> 
-^ Criteria ^ MEITEC ^ ECOncrete ^ IntelliReefs ^ 
-| Cost | Medium | High | Medium–High | 
-| Real-time Monitoring | No | No | No | 
-| Data Transmission | No | No | No | 
-| Structural Complexity | Low–Medium | Medium | High | 
-| Sustainability | Medium | High | High | 
-| Durability (Corrosion Resistance) | High | High | Medium | 
-| Ecological Performance | Medium | High | High | 
-| Material Type | Conventional concrete | Eco-enhanced concrete | Alternative eco-materials | 
-| Modularity | Low | Medium | High | 
-| Scalability | High | Medium | Medium | 
-| Maintenance Requirements | Low | Low–Medium | Medium | 
-| Data-driven Decision Support | No | No | No | 
-| Innovation Level | Low | Medium | Medium–High | 
- 
-</table> 
  
  
 ==== 2.6 Summary ==== ==== 2.6 Summary ====
-//Provide here the conclusions of this chapter and make the bridge to the next chapter.//+/* //Provide here the conclusions of this chapter and make the bridge to the next chapter.// */
  
-<del>Based on this study of the state of the art, the team decided to adopt the following <specify here the architecture, technique(s), material(s), component(s)> because <specify here the technical/scientific reasons>. +/* Based on this study of the state of the art, the team decided to adopt the following <specify here the architecture, technique(s), material(s), component(s)> because <specify here the technical/scientific reasons>. */
-</del>+
  
 The comparison indicates that current artificial reef solutions primarily focus on structural and ecological aspects. Solutions such as ECOncrete and IntelliReefs demonstrate strong performance in sustainability and ecological enhancement, while MEITEC emphasizes structural stability and durability. The comparison indicates that current artificial reef solutions primarily focus on structural and ecological aspects. Solutions such as ECOncrete and IntelliReefs demonstrate strong performance in sustainability and ecological enhancement, while MEITEC emphasizes structural stability and durability.