The mitigation and restoration of human impact in the
aquatic environment comprise deliberate settlement of artificial
structures. According to (1985), the idea of building
artificial reefs started with the use of tree branches and rocks
aiming the increase on fishery production. Nowadays the study
of & (1989) shows that the use of pre-fabricated
modules designed as artificial reefs is more efficient than the
use of scraps and other materials sank without proper planning.
(2001) found a positive correlation between
habitat complexity, fish abundance and diversity; although
(2001) assume benthic communities as major
fish community modelling factor in rocky shores.
In Brazil few researchers have devoted their studies to the
use of artificial reefs through an ecological approach. However,
they are well known by governmental fishery administrators as
an increasing fishery production tool.
Artisanal fishery plays an important role in the economy of
northern Rio de Janeiro state. The coast is very homogeneous
and consists basically in coastal lagoons, sandy beaches and
scarce rocky bottoms. (2000) evaluated the
potential of artificial reefs in increasing fishery production in
the area, justifying previous studies of their ecological
implications, generating the necessary knowledge for its
rational management.
The main objective of this study is to determine the role of
structural complexity of the habitat and the presence of benthic
community as the main modelling factors of the fish community
structure and composition.