Akçansa, a joint venture of Sabancı Holding and Heidelberg Materials, has released the second monitoring report of the Marmara Islands Artificial Reef Project, implemented in cooperation with the Marmara Island Gündoğdu Village Development and Beautification Association and under the consultancy of Balıkesir University and Çanakkale Onsekiz Mart University.
The latest observations recorded a total of 40 different species—12 of which are fish—on 280 artificial reefs placed on the seabed off the coast of Marmara Island. This figure represents a 21% increase compared to the 33 species identified last year. The findings indicate that the reefs are increasingly being used as habitats by marine life.
As part of the “Marmara Islands Artificial Reef Project,” initiated by Akçansa in collaboration with the Marmara Island Gündoğdu Village Development and Beautification Association to support biodiversity, a second monitoring dive was conducted, and the accompanying report was prepared. Guided by Balıkesir University and Çanakkale Onsekiz Mart University and approved by the Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry, General Directorate of Fisheries and Aquaculture, the project demonstrates that the artificial reef clusters placed on the seabed of the Marmara Sea have transformed into active ecosystem zones, showing positive ecological and functional development.
The report, prepared by the Turkish Marine Research Foundation (TUDAV), revealed that the reefs have quickly begun to be used as habitats by marine species and that an increase in species diversity has been observed.
Artificial Reefs Adapted to the Marine Ecosystem
Observations conducted in the project area indicated that the reef placement zones are morphologically and physically suitable for marine life, with no signs of subsidence, instability, or other negative developments. Furthermore, the minimal accumulation of solid waste in the reef areas was noted as an indicator of the region’s continued cleanliness.
The report also underlines that the increase in species belonging to different ecological groups demonstrates that the artificial reefs are being used more intensively over time by various marine communities. This finding points to the reefs not only creating new habitats but also becoming an integral part of the marine ecosystem, providing long-term benefits for biodiversity and supporting the life cycles of marine organisms.
“We Aim to Contribute to Both the Ecosystem and the Future in a Sustainable Way”
Vecih Yılmaz, General Manager of Akçansa, stated: “In line with our vision to become Turkey’s sustainable building materials company with the highest stakeholder value, we prioritize implementing projects that create direct environmental benefits. With our Artificial Reef Project, we aimed to strengthen the marine ecosystem, support biodiversity, and create safe habitats for marine life. We are delighted to see species diversity increase by over 20% in the second monitoring report prepared in collaboration with TUDAV. As Akçansa, we will continue contributing to a sustainable future through our artificial reef project, which is based on scientific data, delivers tangible benefits, and is supported by long-term monitoring.”
Prof. Dr. Bayram Öztürk, President of the Turkish Marine Research Foundation, commented:
“Compared to last year, seeing economically valuable fish such as brown meagre and common two-banded seabream more frequently around the reef clusters is particularly notable. Additionally, the first-time observation of species like sea urchins and sea cucumbers is highly remarkable. I believe it is essential to examine the developments within the reefs and highlight their contributions to biodiversity.”
Hüseyin Semerci, Project Initiative Group Leader, added: “We are pleased to witness the growing vitality and continuous improvement of our artificial reefs, along with the rise in species numbers. The presence of newly recorded species, as well as protected marine life, is highly significant. Through the Marmara Islands Artificial Reef Project, we will continue supporting the marine ecosystem and underwater species populations.”
