After Centuries of Destruction, Scientists Have Figured Out How To Best Restore Oyster Reefs

Researchers used 3D photogrammetry to document the geometry of surviving Sydney rock oyster reefs.

They produced 16 types of concrete tiles designed to replicate different levels of natural reef structural complexity.

Tiles were deployed at estuary sites in the greater Sydney region: Brisbane Water, the Hawkesbury River, and Port Hacking.

Some tiles were protected with cages to restrict predator access while others remained exposed.

A study published in Nature finds that reef 3D architecture influences oyster settlement, survival, and reef growth.