In a groundbreaking study, researchers have discovered a cost-effective and eco-friendly method to rejuvenate marine life in soft-bottomed seas, like the Dutch Wadden Sea. By deploying “tree-reefs” constructed from culled pear trees, these structures have swiftly become thriving havens for a diverse array of marine species, including fish, crustaceans, polyps, and shellfish.
This innovative approach offers hope for the restoration of marine biodiversity, a crucial goal in line with the UN Decade on Ecosystem Restoration and the EU Biodiversity Strategy. While questions about the long-term sustainability of these tree-reefs remain, the initial success is a beacon of optimism for marine conservation efforts worldwide.
