Oyster reefs, mussel beds and tubeworm reefs are prime examples of ecosystem engineers and also the species of interest within this study. They do not only stabilize the soil on which they are established but are also able to modulate the (tidal) flow and wave action. In doing so, they modify sedimentation, consolidation, and stabilization patterns within estuaries and tidal basins. A comparative study between northern temperate Europe (Belgian & Dutch part of the North Sea) and The Bay of Bengal generated a set of environmental boundary parameters and basic design conditions for the development of biogenic reefs that is applicable at any coastline worldwide. These results were used as input for the creation of detailed habitat suitability maps with the above-mentioned eco-engineering species. The maps depicted sites with favourable environmental conditions for the creation of biogenic reefs in northern Temperate Europe and tropical Bay of Bengal.
The predicted results will provide a new dimension for planning, application and managing biogenic reefs as a nature inspired design solution along the tropical Bay of Bengal and northern temperate Europe as well the set blueprint can be applicable worldwide application of nature inspired design solutions.
Keywords: Coastbusters project, Nature inspired design solutions, biogenic reef, Bay of Bengal, temperate Europe, oyster, mussel, tubeworm, habitat, ecoengineering.
