Bio-Inspired Designs for Conservation Gains in Hardened Freshwater Shorelines

Area of Science:

• Freshwater ecology
• Conservation science
• Coastal engineering

Background:

• Hardened shorelines (concrete walls, sheet pilings) are prevalent in freshwater systems for development and erosion control.
• These structures are typically flat, lacking the habitat complexity crucial for supporting diverse freshwater organisms.
• Freshwater biodiversity is declining, with habitat loss and degradation being primary drivers.

Purpose of the Study:

• To summarize the prevalence of hardened shorelines in freshwater environments and their impact on biodiversity.
• To explore the integration of habitat complexity into hardened shorelines, drawing lessons from marine bio-inspired designs.
• To present a case study on developing and testing novel structures for freshwater applications.

Main Methods:

• Review of hardened shoreline use in freshwater systems.
• Adaptation of marine bio-inspired seawall concepts for freshwater environments.
• Development, deployment, and testing of pilot-stage alternative structures.

Main Results:

• Identified significant use of hardened shorelines contributing to freshwater biodiversity loss.
• Demonstrated the potential of bio-inspired structures to introduce habitat complexity.
• Outlined practical considerations and research needs for wider adoption.

Conclusions:

• Integrating habitat complexity into hardened freshwater shorelines is a promising conservation strategy.
• Lessons from marine engineering can be effectively applied to freshwater systems.
• Further research and practical considerations are necessary for widespread implementation.