Humans have been trying to construct artificial coral reefs since at least the 1950s, with only marginal success. But in 1979, German scientist and inventor Wolf Hilbertz created ‘Biorock,’ also known as ‘Seacrete.’ Hilbertz found that by directing a low-voltage charge to a metal frame submerged in seawater, calcium and other minerals in the water would build up on the frame. This mineral coating is so similar to the mineral composition of natural reef substrate that it creates a good habitat for the growth of corals. After the minerals have begun to coat the surface, divers transplant coral fragments from other reefs, attaching them to the structure’s frame. These coral pieces begin to bond to the accreted mineral substrate and start to grow, typically faster than in natural environments. Eventually the reef looks and functions like a natural reef ecosystem rather than an artificial one.
Diving into World Oceans Day
Today in History
More Desktop Wallpapers:
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Daylight saving time begins
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A path into history
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Detroit Industry Murals by Diego Rivera
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Giants of the avian world
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Sea Otter Awareness Week
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The monsoon arrives in the desert
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A tower of remembrance
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A view from the top
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Festivus
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Martin Luther King Day
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Harvest season begins
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Göreme, Cappadocia, Turkey
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Headed to the High Country
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Get on your bike and ride
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It s a good day to be green
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Party like it’s 5779
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Lanterns alight in Pingxi
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Preservation Hall in New Orleans, Louisiana
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A memorial in Germany
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Navajo Bridge in Marble Canyon
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National Bison Day
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A midsummer twilight s dream
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Happy holidays!
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Visiting Ahch-To on Star Wars Day
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Gateway to America
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A winter wonderland in Northeast China
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Joshua Tree National Park
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Ring of fire solar eclipse
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Travel Sunday: Liverpool
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It’s Opening Day for Major League Baseball