The Biohut project creates nurseries for fish larvae in the form of 100% recyclable steel modules filled with local oyster shells. These artificial habitats, developed by Ecocean, allow port areas to regain their nursery function. TIPSP (Industrial terminal of the Port of San Pedro) being a port terminal that by its activity impacts the environment (air, water) through the unloading and loading of ships and associated emissions, is committed to restore maritime biodiversity which is under threat. According to the Worldwide Fund for Nature (WWF), half of marine species have disappeared between 1970 and 2020 due to human activities, in particular coastal development.
The Biohuts were prepared on the surface and connected as a structure by a mix of floats and ropes. Two 20L canisters moored by an 80cm end to the upper part of each Biohut keep them in positive buoyancy. 32 Biohut pylons have been installed under 8 piles at the end of the TIPSP wharf by professional divers. These artificial Biohut habitats were constructed using recycled and recyclable materials. After the life span of the Biohuts (5-10 years) the structure can be 100% recycled.
The Biohat structures are placed into the water, surrounding the pylons to be equipped. The arrangement of the Biohuts around the pylons is checked and secured. This Biohut project will have positive impact on biodiversity as it will repopulate the seabed with different marine species and, in addition, can be a good tool to collect scientific data on coastal colonization by juveniles but also to raise public awareness on biodiversity.