Modular Sealife System
What is MOSES?
The Modular Sealife System (MOSES) is a modular system to build artificial reefs. When these reefs are installed in oceans or waterways, they serve as habitat for aquatic animals to find food, shelter and a safe space to reproduce. MOSES-reefs can also be installed as functional objects, such as eco-anchors for floating solar panels or coastal erosion protection units. By using blast furnace cement the CO2-emissions are reduced with 50% compared to traditional concrete (Portland cement).
Have the effects of MOSES been tested?
MOSES reefs have been installed in different ecosystems around the world. Every ecosystem is unique, but with various monitoring techniques the effects of the reefs can be researched. In this video one of our reefs in the Wadden Sea is being monitored.
To see the list of species that have been observed with this monitoring click here:
e-DNA monitoring
Immediately after installation the MOSES reefs function as habitats for marine life. In close collaboration with Wageningen University & Research, e-DNA samples have been taken on different reef locations to learn more about the species richness around the reefs.
To learn more about eDNA monitoring:
What about the stability at sea?
To test the stability of MOSES-reefs, various storm conditions were simulated at the independent institute for applied research in the field of water and subsurface Deltares. With the help of hydraulic engineers we have identified the minimum necessary weight of the reefs at different depths and wave heights.
Sheet Pile Eco-Territorial Reinforcement
What is SPECTER?
SPECTER is a multi-layered hanging case that can be installed onto sheet piles. Within the SPECTER cases native aquatic plants are placed. When these plants have grown they have a positive effect on the water quality and the surrounding ecosystem. When installed along canals, fish can find food, shelter and a safe space to reproduce along their migration route. With SPECTER it is possible to bring back nature in places, where this hasn't been possible before.
Why install SPECTER?
Habitat Creation
Native swamp plants provide valuable habitats for various species of insects, birds, and other wildlife. These wetland areas become breeding grounds and homes for many organisms, contributing to the overall biodiversity of the region.
Water Filtration
Wetland plants are known for their ability to filter and purify water. As rainwater and runoff pass through the planters, the plants absorb excess nutrients and pollutants, thus improving the water quality of nearby bodies of water, such as rivers or ponds.
Aesthetic Value
Apart from their ecological benefits, native swamp plants can add aesthetic appeal to the urban landscape, creating a green and vibrant atmosphere for residents and visitors.
Carbon Sequestration
Wetland plants are efficient at sequestering carbon dioxide from the atmosphere. By incorporating these plants in the urban district, the project can contribute to local climate change mitigation efforts.
What species does SPECTER attract?
Above water the plants attract birds, bees and other insects. Additionally the vegetation creates a pleasant street view with a positive environmental impact.
Just below the water surface juvenile fish, such as the three-spined stickleback and elver have the option to find food and shelter within the SPECTER cases.
Under water SPECTER creates a green aquatic wall full of insect larvae, water snails and other aquatic invertebrates. These organisms are food for fish.
REEFPOOL
What is a Reefpool?
Reefpools are structural performing armor units that can be used for dike reinforcements while promoting population growth of marine organisms. By mimicking natural rock pools, Reefpools function as intertidal habitats along dikes or wave breakers. Reefpools will fill up with fresh water and nutrients during high tide (2 times a day), which attracts all sorts of organisms. 80% of Reefpools consists out of natural materials. The additional 20% is bio-concrete (blast furnace cement), which is produced with half of the CO2-emissions of traditional concrete. The shells that are added in the Reefpools create a bioreceptive hard substrate for organisms to settle on. Additionally these shells contain a high amount of calcium carbonate, which is used by oysters and mussles to build their own shells.
What species does the Reefpool attract?
The Reefpool is designed to form a place of refuge for crustaceans, such as crabs, lobsters and shrimps. Some of these crustaceans will attract birds which feed on these animals. In addition, the bio-receptive surface will attract mollusks such as oysters and mussels and various types of seaweeds and algae can grow onto it. The 2021-2023 pilot project at the Lauwersmeerdijk in the Netherlands will give insights into what species will adopt the tidal pool as their habitat.