Early Fish Community Development in a 3D-Printed Artificial Clay Reef System in Pujada Bay, Philippines

Rheacin Polestico; Lea A. Jimenez; Amy G. Ponce; Lorjie B. Bation; Ariel C. Eballe

doi:10.55927/eajmr.v5i7.191

Authors

Rheacin Polestico Davao Oriental State University
Lea A. Jimenez Davao Oriental State University
Amy G. Ponce Davao Oriental State University
Lorjie B. Bation Davao Oriental State University
Ariel C. Eballe Davao Oriental State University

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.55927/eajmr.v5i7.191

Keywords:

Artificial Reef, fish visual census, fish assemblage, reef rehabilitation, Pujada Bay

Abstract

This study assessed the early fish assemblage associated with a 3D-printed Artificial Clay Reef (ACR) deployed in Pujada Bay, City of Mati, Davao Oriental, six months after installation. Using a modified non-destructive Fish Visual Census, the study documented fish abundance, species composition, fishery category, trophic groups, and diversity indices. Results recorded 250 individuals from 27 species and 11 families. The assemblage was dominated by non-target reef-associated fishes, particularly pomacentrids, indicating that small-bodied fishes were among the earliest users of the structure. The presence of target species suggests initial functional roles related to herbivory, detritus removal, and trophic regulation. Overall, the ACR showed early habitat potential; however, continued monitoring is needed to confirm long-term rehabilitation success.

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