The use of artificial structures as a shelter for fishes was evaluated aiming to assess increase in fish abundance in Ilha Grande Bay at Southeast Brazilian coast (Lat: 22°8'-23°5' S; Long. 44º05’-44º40’W). Five different types of structures, made of clay tiles, with an increase range on size and complexity were tested to assess their efficiency. Fish were counted in each type of structure from May-1996 to April-1997 by underwater observation made with snorkelling. According to the pattern of concentration in the structures, two groups of fishes were identified. One comprised by E. guaza, M. rubra, R. randalli, S. hispidus, Sphoeroides sp and Haemulun sp showed affinity for hard bottom, irregular profile and an increase in abundance on the more complex and biggest structures. The other comprised by Chylomicterus sp, Gerres spp, Anchoa sp, Diapterus sp, Oligoplites sp and D. radiale did not present clear preference for hard bottom.
Artificial Reefs; Brazil; Fish; Habitat selection
