A contractor for the state has dropped about 1,200 Z-shaped concrete fish habitats in the ocean off Ma'ili to enlarge the Wai'anae Artificial Reef.

Each concrete form is 8 feet by 4 feet, with foot-long legs at each end. American Marine Corp. dropped the forms on the artificial reef at depths of 60 to 70 feet.

"New coral and seaweed will grow on the forms, which will provide additional habitat to new communities of reef fish," said Peter Young, chairman of the state Department of Land and Natural Resources. "Artificial reefs increase potential fishing grounds for fishermen, and the cost to the state is minimal."

The objects, which were dropped Tuesday, were made of material donated by Ameron Hawai'i.

The Wai'anae Artificial Reef, about one mile offshore, was created in 1963 and covers about 141 acres at a depth of 50 to 100 feet.

The man-made reef was created to provide a habitat for marine animals by depositing large objects, including concrete pipes, 1,500 tire modules, 6,835 Z-shaped modules and several vessels (such as three barges, two military landing craft and a mine-sweeper.)

Divers are advised not to enter the vessels, which may not be safe.

For information on the artificial reef program, call Paul Murakawa at 587-5404.