Evaluation of fish fauna associated with experimental artificial reefs in Hekim Island in Izmir Bay (Aegean Sea, Turkey)

Abstract

Fish fauna before and after reef deployments in Hekim Island was studied. Furthermore, differences of fish fauna between 9m and 18m reef groups were also evaluated. Underwater visual census technique was used to determine fish species richness and abundance. Differences in fish species richness, abundance and diversity between before and after reef deployment and 9m and 18m reef groups were revealed using correspondence analysis. Increasing of fish species richness and abundances after reef deployment was found significant. Differences in fish richness and abundance between 9m and 18m reef groups were not significant. It was found that seasons have an important effect on fish composition around artificial reefs.