A live-streaming camera and an underwater microphone are being used to monitor marine life at the artificial reef off Peace Beach, marine scientist Deborah Brosnan said during a radio discussion Saturday.

Brosnan, the government’s special envoy for coastal resilience and ocean economy, said the camera records around the clock, while a hydrophone picks up sounds made by fish. Researchers can identify the sounds of up to 80 Caribbean fish species, she said, adding that the recordings could eventually help assess reef health.

“We’re watching it and we’re listening to it,” Brosnan said, encouraging the public to follow the livestream and report unusual observations. She described the site as an educational resource where people can take part in observing how the reef develops.

The Peace Beach reef structures were designed to mimic natural coral formations. Brosnan said scientists surveyed the area and identified where the structures would be placed before installation.

She also cited reef structures in Barbuda, installed about two-and-a-half to three years ago, which she said had attracted 37 fish species, as well as octopus and lobster. The government identifies Brosnan as its special envoy for coastal resilience and ocean economy.

This article was originally published by Antigua News Room. Read the original article here: Live cameras, underwater microphones monitor Peace Beach reef in Antigua and Barbuda.