| In 2007, 100 reef structures, half with fish attracting devices (FADs) and half reef pyramids alone, were deployed in Alabama's reef permit zone, in 28 groupings of one, two, four or six reefs at 200-350 foot depths. The objectives of this study were to assess the state and persistence of reefs and FADs after four years, and determine responses of reef fish to increased habitat quantity and FAD presence. Following confirmation of presence and intact condition of reefs and FADs, significantly more pelagic fish were found on FAD-reefs versus reefs without. Results also displayed a trend whereby catch per unit effort (CPUE) increased with increasing pyramid density, with greatest efficiency occurring at two-pyramid reefs. These results indicate that two-pyramid systems with FADs had optimal diversity and CPUE, and therefore present the greatest cost/benefit. However, these structures may require specialized management, as benthic and pelagic species exhibit differing responses to pyramids and FADs. |
