Benthic recovery after fish farming cessation: A “beyond-BACI” approach

► Sediment variables were monitored before and after fish farming cessation. ► A beyond-BACI approach was developed to ascertain whether recovery occurred. ► One year after fish farming cessation, symptoms of chemical recovery were observed. ► Polychaete assemblage developed to a more structured and diverse assemblage. ► A partial recovery of the benthic recovery was achieved after 1 year.