Division 3O Coral closure
Location: Newfoundland-Labrador Shelves Bioregion
Approximate Area: 1,042,162 hectares
Date of Designation: 2017
Conservation Objectives
To protect cold-water sponges and corals, as well as many other marine species.
Prohibitions
All bottom-fishing activities are prohibited in the closure.
Why (environmental context for 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.