Nature-based reef solution for coastal protection and marine biodiversity enhancement

Introduction

LIFE NatuReef (Nature-based reef solution for coastal protection and marine biodiversity enhancement) aims to apply at demonstration level the best practices available to the restoration of native oyster and sabellariid reefs. This project focuses on seeding the native species in a rare non-urbanized coastal stretch of the northern Adriatic coasts: the Bevano river mouth (Ravenna municipality, Emilia-Romagna Region, Italy). This area is designated as a SCI, SAC, and SPA under the EU Natura 2000 (IT4070009 - Ortazzo, Ortazzino, Foce del Torrente Bevano).

Ecosystem Engineers

Ostrea edulis and Sabellaria alveolata and S. spinulosa are native ecosystem engineers capable of creating three-dimensional reefs. These reefs have several important functions:

• Retain sediments
• Dissipate wave energy, counteracting coastal erosion
• Create ecological niches that allow for high biodiversity and nursery habitats

Current Status

Native oysters have almost disappeared, and sabellariid reefs are rare in the Mediterranean Sea. These reefs represent marginal habitats that have lost most of their ecosystem functions at the regional level.

Biodiversity Enhancement

The restored reefs will enhance marine biodiversity by providing habitat and feeding grounds for both priority and non-priority threatened species, including:

1. Sea turtles
2. Seahorses
3. Seabirds

Coastal Protection

These reefs will also defend priority and non-priority habitats such as:

• Beach dunes
• Coastal lagoons
• Pinewoods

They will protect these areas from coastal erosion and salt intrusion, host endangered vegetation, and provide nursery areas for priority bird species.

Ecosystem Goods and Services

The reefs will provide a number of ecosystem goods and services, including:

• Biodiversity enhancement
• Improved water quality and clarity
• Increased fish and shellfish production
• Sediment stabilization and wave energy dissipation
• Prevention of coastal erosion
• High cultural value

Climate Change Adaptation

Being living structures, these reefs have the potential to adapt and, to some extent, counteract the effects of climate change, such as:

• Sea level rise
• Increased frequency and intensity of storm and flooding events

This contributes to the resistance and resilience of the coastal marine ecosystem.