4.3. Implications for management and future research
The following measures could be taken to reduce the amount of
damage to glass sponge reefs and associated fauna: (1) routing the
cable around ancient, irreplaceable reefs, whenever possible; (2)
minimizing cable movement across the surface of the reef at
installation and ensuring the cables do not move during routine
operation, and (3) assessing potential damage to glass sponges
prior to cable decommissioning.