Central Gulf of St Lawrence Coral Conservation Area
Location: Coastal Atlantic Marine
Date of Designation: 2017
Conservation Objectives
To protect cold-water corals, which are fragile and extremely important for local ecosystems.
Prohibitions
All fishing which uses bottom-contact gear (such as bottom trawls or traps) is prohibited.
Why (environmental context for protection)
Various seafloor-dwelling species, including sea pens, hard corals, and sponges, have a high concentration within the conservation area. These species play a crucial role in healthy ecosystems by providing habitats for refuge, feeding and breeding for other marine creatures. Within the conservation area, at least three species of rays and wolffish rely on these corals, as well as a plethora of invertebrates.