Nature-based Solutions (NbS) have increasingly been developed as techniques to mitigate effects of anthropogenic activity. The Coastbusters project aimed to use longline aquaculture techniques as a NbS to create biogenic mussel beds that would prevent erosion along the Belgian coast. This study analyzed the characteristics of the mussels during the project to determine its effectiveness in establishing persistent reefs. Different dropper line materials were compared to see how their structure and time spent in the water impacted their ability to provide healthy mussels to the seafloor. Different sampling methods were employed to determine the best way to accurately and efficiently measure mussel biomass. We found that materials with greater surface area that were submerged for ~1 year had high mussel biomass and abundances and were able to provide mussels to the seafloor. However, intense hydrodynamic activity during winter prevented persistent reef formation. Measurement methods resulted in different estimates of biomass and require further investigation. This project was the first of its kind, and offers insights into applying aquaculture techniques as a NbS in a dynamic sandy foreshore. Future endeavors would require standardization of sampling protocols, more frequent sampling, and a way for reefs to endure harsh conditions in winter.
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