Fire Island Artificial Reef

Fire Island Artificial Reef

2.0 nautical miles south of Fire Island Lighthouse, 1.33 sq miles
Depth: 62 - 73 ft

Not Shown:

  • 1,500 automobile tires






rock reef
A hopper barge full of rock

All manner of concrete, steel, and stone rubble from dredging, demolition projects, and other construction is used as artificial reef materials. This material is generally available at very low cost or free from construction companies who are more than happy to get rid of it. Transportation costs determine where this material is used by the Reef Program.


Longfin Squid

Loligo pealei

Size: to 17"

Habitat: Generally deep waters, but moves inshore in the summer. I have seen small ones at depths of 50-70 ft and babies in the rivers.

Notes:

Longfin Squid

The squid is a mollusk, related to snails and clams. These animals travel in schools, swimming backwards by jet propulsion. Small specimens are nearly transparent except for the eyes. Tropical squids can show considerable intelligence and curiosity, but northern versions are, well, just stupid. I have seen huge schools of small transparent squids offshore, just their eyes visible, like black marbles. In the rivers, I have seen small schools of purple squids, and tiny colorless babies drifting in the current. All are predatory.