Rewilding Sabellaria reefs in the Wadden Sea

Summary

In this project we prepare for the reintroduction of Sabellaria into the Wadden Sea. The reefs that these aquatic worms build contribute to increased biodiversity through better shelter and living conditions for many species, and contribute to the stability of mudflats. The project includes a study into the present and historical occurrence of Sabellaria in the international Wadden Sea, the description of optimal habitat conditions for Sabellaria reefs to thrive, and identification of the positive or negative implications for the Wadden Sea ecosystem when Sabellaria reefs will re-occur.

Background and reasoning/rationale

The Wadden Sea area is an area with great ecological value. In order to maintain and improve the quality of this area, policy objectives have been drawn up. Objectives for the natural values of the trilateral Wadden Sea have been set out in the Wadden Sea Plan 2010 (CWSS, 2010). Sabellaria reefs are included as an objective: "A natural size, distribution and development of natural mussel beds, Sabellaria reefs and Zostera fields". A successful reintroduction of Sabellaria in the Wadden Sea contributes to the implementation of important national and international policy goals. Being a UNESCO Natural World Heritage, many eyes are on the Wadden Sea area and there is a lot of interest in restoring natural developments and on increasing biodiversity.