Fake reefs planted at Banten Bay

SERANG, Banten: The Banten Marine and Fisheries Office has planted at least 100 artificial coral reefs in Banten Bay waters in a bid to restore the condition of the natural reefs.

Head of Marine and Fishery Office Fatomi Dirjosujoko said that the project also was aimed at encouraging local people to preserve natural coral reefs.

"Most damaged coral reefs in Indonesian waters are caused by local people who use chemicals to catch fish and take coral randomly," he said, adding that his office had also planted 20,000 mangrove saplings in Karangantu and Pulau Panjang coastal areas of the province. --Antara