Algal transplantation in the Mediterranean Sea: implications for artificial reefs management and envirnmental mitigation.

Abstract In this study, transplantation techniques for the macroalgae Cystoseira barbata (Stackhouse) C. Agardh and Cystoseira compressa (Esper) Gerloff & Nizamuddin were investigated to improve habitat enhancement procedures and to test their feasibility as a restoration tool. Adult thalli were transplanted onto artificial modules in two locations in the Northern Adriatic Sea (Mediterranean Sea). Different techniques were employed for the two species. Growth and survival rates of the transplanted sporophytes were monitored monthly for 1 yr and compared with naturally settled sporophytes. Based on the results of this study, the transplantation process for C. barbata seems to be successful, while that for C. compressa needs to be refined. Sporeling cultures for C. barbata were tested in the laboratory to provide nurseries for rearing of young plants for transplantation.