Marine habitat modification through artificial reefs off the Algarve (southern Portugal): An economic analysis of the fisheries and the prospects for management

The paper examines the use and potential of artificial reefs, focussing on their role in sustaining coastal fisheries. A range of economic benefits are attributable to artificial reefs, and empirical evidence relating to the performance of artificial reef system in the Algarve (southern Portugal) is used to demonstrate their potential to increase fishing incomes. Capturing these benefits, it is argued, will require a clear exploitation strategy for controlling the pressure of fishing.