Glasby, T.Connell, S.2006-07-192006-07-191999Ambio, 1999; 28(7):595-5980044-7447http://hdl.handle.net/2440/12039Large numbers of urban structures have been added to the waterways around coastal cities and many more are likely to be added in the future. Some of the most common structures seen in harbors around the world are pier pilings, pontoons, and retaining walls. These may be constructed from a variety of materials, many of which are foreign to the marine environment. Despite the proliferation of urban structures around coastal cities, there has been surprisingly little research on the effects they may have on marine biota. In this paper we present details of studies which tested whether different types of subtidal organisms grew on different urban structures and natural rocky reefs. The results indicate that many urban structures in harbors and estuaries may be considered novel habitats, quite distinct from natural rocky reefs. A great deal more research is needed to understand fully the consequences of adding new habitats to the marine environment.enJournal article003000406600199905790000843572000062-s2.0-003336972068072Connell, S. [0000-0002-5350-6852]