In 1968, the 440-foot Amaryllis became an artificial reef off Palm Beach County in roughly 82 feet of water; reef divers later recorded 136 fish species in 15 surveys

The Amaryllis, once a freighter, now rests as an artificial reef after running aground near Palm Beach, lying about 80 feet underwater. Surveys have revealed 136 distinct fish species thriving around the wreck. Ongoing research aims to evaluate whether artificial reefs can replicate the essential benefits provided by natural reefs, illustrating the ecological value of human-constructed underwater habitats.