Florida's Mermaid Reef Project Deploys Over 300 Eco-Concrete Sculptures

The 1000 Mermaids Artificial Reef Project, led by Ocean Rescue Alliance International, now boasts more than 300 sculpted reef modules scattered across South Florida’s coastal waters. Starting in 2019 near Palm Beach County, the initiative has moved southward into Broward County, deploying concrete structures that weigh from 2,200 to 5,500 pounds and are made from environmentally friendly, pH-neutral mix. Artists create mermaid, merman and other sea-themed figures by casting real bodies, then attach them to reef bases that feature holes, textures and sheltered niches for marine organisms.

The patented Coral Lok system, devised by Chris O'Hare, allows researchers to affix nursery-grown coral fragments without harmful adhesives. Shelby Thomas emphasizes that the art serves to draw public interest and funding while the primary goal remains habitat restoration. Municipal partners like the City of Hollywood have installed both deep-water and shallow-water reefs, enabling snorkelers to experience the sculptures without boats, and future sites are planned for Mexico and the Caribbean.