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An innovative pervious concrete containing recycled oyster shells for artificial reef structures has been developed. The new artificial reef concrete incorporating oyster shells contained higher amounts of supplementary cementitious material and sea sand instead of river sand. Investigations on homogeneity, strength characteristics, pH levels and mussel larvae (Mytilus galloprovincialis) settlement were performed to verify the effectiveness of different constituents. The proposed concrete mixes have the potential for use in artificial reef construction representing improved characteristics with regards to weight, cost, environmental sustainability, carbon footprint and attachment of shellfish larvae to the reef, enabling nature-based coastal protection solutions, or 'living shorelines. • A pervious concrete containing recycled oyster shells for artificial reef structures developed. • The effect of using a high slag blend as well as sand type (river sand/sea sand) investigated. • Compressive strength, surface pH, carbonation and mussel larvae preferential tests performed. • Oyster shell waste can be used to create a biologically conductive substrate for artificial reefs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]