After four and a half years of planning, design, and collaboration, Fish Futures is thrilled to announce that the long-awaited deep-water artificial kōura reefs are finally being installed! This milestone, led by Fish Futures’ researcher Ian Kusabs, marks a major step forward for freshwater habitat restoration and kōura (freshwater crayfish) conservation.
So far, four reefs have been successfully completed. Each reef is built on sturdy macrocarpa slab bases, providing a natural and durable foundation. These structures are carefully designed to mimic the complexity of natural habitats, offering shelter and breeding spaces for kōura.
The operation has proven far more complex than anticipated, demanding precision, expertise, and adaptability. We were lucky to have Brendon Cappely from Greenfield Diving Ltd install the reefs for us – we couldn’t have done it without them.
These reefs represent more than physical structures—they embody a commitment to enhancing biodiversity, supporting sustainable fisheries, and restoring ecological balance in our freshwater systems.
Stay tuned for updates as we begin monitoring the reefs’ impact on kōura populations. This is a huge win for freshwater restoration, and we’re excited to see these habitats thrive for years to come!