Division 3O Coral closure
Emplacement: Newfoundland-Labrador Shelves Bioregion
Superficie approximative: 1,042,162 hectares
Date de désignation: 2017
Objectifs de conservation
To protect cold-water sponges and corals, as well as many other marine species.
Interdictions
All bottom-fishing activities are prohibited in the closure.
Pourquoi (contexte environnemental pour la protection)
The closure contains an abundance of sponge species, as well as coral species such as sea pens. Sponges and corals are fragile, and slow to recover when hurt. When not protected, they can easily be damaged by fishing or other human activities that come into contact with the sea floor. Sponges and corals both create structures that offer refuge, feeding, and rearing areas for many other marine species. Other animals that are found within the closure include Atlantic cod, redfish, and leatherback sea turtles.